Cell Biology and Macromolecules

These flashcards cover fundamental concepts in cell biology, types of cells, organelles, microscopy, macromolecules, and their functions.

Cell

Basic structural, organisational, and functional unit of all living organisms.

Cytoplasm

Site of metabolic reactions within the cell.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that do not have membrane-bound organelles and typically have a single chromosome.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that contain membrane-bound organelles including a nucleus.

Ribosomes

Structures in the cell responsible for protein synthesis.

Nucleus

Membrane-bound organelle that contains the genetic material of a cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

Organelle composed of rough (with ribosomes) and smooth (without ribosomes) types; involved in protein and lipid synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

Organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion.

Lysosomes

Organelles that contain digestive enzymes used to break down worn-out or damaged structures.

Chloroplasts

Organelles that perform photosynthesis in plant cells.

Vacuole

Storage organelle in plant cells, holding water and nutrients.

Microscope

Instrument used to observe objects too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Magnification

The process of enlarging an object's image through a microscope.

Glycoproteins

Proteins that have carbohydrates attached, important for cell identity and recognition.

Phospholipid bilayer

Structural component of cell membranes, consisting of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Transmembrane Proteins

Integral proteins that span across the lipid bilayer and facilitate various functions.

Active Transport

Process that moves molecules against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.

Carbohydrates

Macromolecules made up of sugar monomers; important for energy storage and structural roles.

Lipids

Hydrophobic macromolecules including fats, oils, and phospholipids, primarily used for energy storage.

Proteins

Polymeric macromolecules made up of amino acids; perform a wide range of functions in organisms.

Nucleic Acids

Biopolymers, including DNA and RNA, that store and transmit genetic information.