Final exam: Biochem, Cell Structure & Transport

active transport

cell transportation that NEEDS energy, moves molecules from low —> high

diffusion

the passive movement of molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. NO energy needed.

osmosis

passive movement of water molecules through a membrane (such as a cell membrane)

concentration gradient

the difference in concentration of a substance between two areas, driving diffusion and osmosis. (high and low)

high —> low

The direction molecules move with diffusion

low —> high

The direction molecules can move ONLY with active transport/energy

cell membrane

A selectively permeable barrier surrounding the cell, regulating what enters and exits.

mitochondria

Organelles in eukaryotic cells known as the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration.

chloroplasts

Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.

lysosomes

eukaryotic cell organelle that digests molecules

nucleus

eukaryotic cell organelle that regulates the cell, contains DNA

chromosome

DNA organized by wrapping it tightly around proteins; found in pairs in eukaryotic cells

cell wall

a rigid outer layer found in plant cells, fungi, and bacteria that provides structural support and protection.

ATP

energy molecule used by cells; “battery” recharged by cellular respiration

prokaryotic

cells that do NOT have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, unicellular bacteria.

eukaryotic

cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, including plants and animals.

enzyme

a type of protein that speeds up chemical reactions in cells by lowering the activation energy.

temperature and pH

Two factors that will affect how well enzymes function

carbon

Most important element to living things (C)

Oxygen

One of the most common elements in living things (O)

Hydrogen

One of the most common elements in living things (H)

Nitrogen

One of the most common elements in living things (N)

Lipids (function)

Make things waterproof, store energy long term

amino acids

proteins are made of…

-ose

a suffix indicating sugars (carbohydrates)

-ase

a suffix indicating enzymes (a type of protein)

carbohydrates (function)

provide quick energy, cell walls

nucleic acids (function)

store and transmit genetic information, directions for cell

proteins (function)

provide structure, control traits, include enzymes

monosaccharide

carbohydrates are made of…

fatty acid

lipids are made of…

nucleotide

nucleic acids are made of…