Cell Theory and Cell Structure

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Cell Theory and the structures and functions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Cell Theory correct

all living things are made of cells, cells are the basic unit of life, and all cells come from other cells.

Unicellular

Organisms composed of a single cell.

Multicellular

Organisms composed of multiple cells that are organized.

Prokaryotes

Cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles; generally smaller and simpler, e.g., bacteria.

Eukaryotes

Cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; more complex, e.g., plants, animals, fungi, protists.

Genetic Material

The DNA or RNA present in all cells that carries genetic information.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance that fills the cell and holds all internal components in place.

Ribosomes

make protein

Cytoskeleton

thread-like fibers made of proteins that provide structural support and shape to the cell.

Nucleus

protects DNA, contains genetic material and controls cell activities.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough ER)

The organelle that is studded with ribosomes and is involved in protein synthesis and packaging.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (Smooth ER)

An organelle that lacks ribosomes and is involved in the synthesis of lipids.

Golgi Apparatus

modifies and packages proteins

Lysosomes

digest foreign substances and worn out cell parts

Vacuoles

liver cells must have large numbers

Mitochondria

produce energy in the form of ATP

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells where photosynthesis occurs, converting sunlight into energy.

Cell Wall (plants, fungi, bacteria)

A protective outer layer that gives shape and support to plant, fungal, and bacterial cells.

Cell Theory

1. all living things made of cells

2. basic unit of life

3. all cells come from other cells

Flagella

acts as a whipping propeller, moving a cell through its enviornment

As cell size increases…

volume increases proportionally more than the surface

A cell is exposed to a substance that prevents it from dividing. The cell becomes larger and larger.

This situation will eventually be problematic, sine the cell’s ability to absorb nutrients through its outer membrane will not increase as quickly as its cytoplasmic needs

Robert Hooke

scientist identified as the individual who first discovered cells

animal cells hold their shape because

they have a cytoskeleton

plant cells hold their shape because

they have a cell wall

ONLY plant cells have

cell wall, chloroplast, central vacuole

ONLY animal cells have 

cytoskeleton, lysosomes, small vacuoles, flagella, centrioles, cilia

Cilia

structures shaped like small oars that beat in unison to move the cell or the liquid around