Definitive Study Notes for Cell Biology 2300

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts from Cell Biology 2300, aiding in the understanding of critical principles and facts essential for the exam.

Cell

The basic unit of biology.

Resolution (Resolvability)

The ability to see fine detail, allowing visualization of structures approximately 1 micrometer in size.

Cell Theory

States that all organisms consist of one or more cells, the cell is the basic unit of structure for all organisms, and all cells arise only from preexisting cells.

Cytology

The study of cellular structure, emphasizing optical techniques.

Biochemistry

The study of cellular structure and function.

Genetics

The study of information flow and heredity.

Micrometer (μm)

One millionth of a meter, often used for measuring bacteria cells.

Nanometer (nm)

One billionth of a meter, relevant for DNA helixes.

Light Microscope

Utilizes white light directly through a specimen, the earliest tool of cytologists.

Fluorescence Microscopy

Locates specific molecules by tagging them with dyes or antibodies.

Electron Microscopy

Uses a beam of electrons for imaging, providing a higher limit of resolution than light microscopy.

Subcellular Fractionation

A procedure to separate cell components, often including ultracentrifugation.

Enzymes

Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions.

Bioinformatics

Combines computer science with biology to organize and interpret large amounts of data.

In Vivo

Pertains to processes occurring within living organisms.

In Vitro

Refers to experiments conducted outside of a living organism.

Hydrophilic

Molecules that dissolve easily in water.

Hydrophobic

Molecules that do not dissolve well in water.

Covalent Bond

The sharing of a pair of electrons between two atoms.

Polarity (of water)

Water is a polar molecule due to unequal distribution of electrons.

Macromolecule

Includes proteins, nucleic acids, and polysaccharides formed through hierarchical assembly.

Amino Acid Sequence (Primary Structure)

The linear sequence of amino acids in a protein, from N-terminus to C-terminus.

Polysaccharides

Long chain polymers made of repetitive sugar units, serving functions such as structure and storage.