Cell Structure and Function Study Guide

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to cell structure and function, focusing on cell theory, domains of life, prokaryotic and eukaryotic differences, and specific organelle functions.

Domains

The three major classifications of life: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

Prokaryotic Kingdoms

The two kingdoms that fall under prokaryotes: Eubacteria and Archaebacteria.

Eukaryotic Kingdoms

The four kingdoms that consist of eukaryotic organisms: Protista, Fungi, Plants, and Animals.

Cell Theory

A theory that describes the properties and functions of cells, formulated from contributions of scientists in the 1600s and 1800s.

Louis Pasteur

Scientist known for the Swan Neck Flask Experiment which disproved spontaneous generation.

Spontaneous Generation

The discredited theory that living organisms can arise from non-living matter.

Prokaryotes vs Eukaryotes

Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have a defined nucleus and complex organelles.

Plasma Membrane

A cellular structure made of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that regulates what enters and exits the cell.

Mitochondria

Organelles known as the powerhouses of the cell, which have their own DNA and ribosomes.

Chloroplasts

Organelles that perform photosynthesis, also containing their own DNA and ribosomes, indicating a bacterial origin.

Cytoplasm

Holds organelles in place

Nucleus (eukaryotes only)

• Control center of the cell

• Stores DNA

• Directs cell activities

Nucleolus (inside nucleus)

Makes ribosomes

Ribosomes (all cells)

• Protein synthesis

• Can be free-floating or attached to rough ER

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

• Has ribosomes attached

• Makes and transports proteins

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

• No ribosomes

• Makes lipids

• Detoxifies harmful substances

Golgi Apparatus

• Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids

Mitochondria

• Produces ATP (energy)

• Site of cellular respiration

• Has its own DNA and ribosomes

Chloroplasts (plants only)

• Photosynthesis

• Converts sunlight into glucose

• Has its own DNA and ribosomes

Lysosomes (mostly animal cells)

• Contain digestive enzymes

• Break down waste, old organelles, and pathogens

• “Cleanup crew” of the cell

Vacuole

• Storage of water, food, and waste

• Large central vacuole in plant cells maintains turgor pressure

Cytoskeleton

• Network of protein fibers

• Maintains cell shape

• Helps with movement and transport inside the cell

Centrioles (animal cells)

Help organize spindle fibers during cell division

Flagella / Cilia (some cells)

• Movement

• Flagella = long tail

• Cilia = short, hair-like projections

Structures Found in ALL Cells

• Cell membrane

• Cytoplasm

• DNA

• Ribosomes