Biology 1: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

These vocabulary flashcards cover the fundamental differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including their structures, methods of genetic exchange, and specific examples based on the lecture notes.

Prokaryotic Cells

The most primitive and simple type of cells that lack a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic Cells

More complex and larger cells that possess a true nucleus enclosed in a nuclear membrane and various membrane-bound organelles.

Nucleoid

The region in the cytoplasm of a prokaryotic cell where the circular DNA floats freely.

Binary Fission

The asexual reproduction method of bacteria where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Conjugation

A form of genetic exchange where one bacterium transfers DNA directly to another through a bridge-like structure called a pilus.

Transformation

A process where a bacterium absorbs and incorporates free-floating DNA fragments from its environment.

Transduction

A method of bacterial genetic exchange involving a bacteriophage (virus) carrying DNA from one bacterium to another.

Bacteriophage

A virus that specifically infects bacteria, often acting as a messenger for DNA during transduction.

Cyanobacteria

Prokaryotic organisms that have existed for over $3.5$ billion years and produced the Earth's first oxygen.

Protists

Eukaryotic organisms that are not animals, land plants, or fungi; examples include algae, amoebas, and euglena.

Fungi

A kingdom of eukaryotes that includes microorganisms like yeasts and molds, as well as mushrooms.

Human Egg (Ovum)

The largest cell in the human body, which is a type of eukaryotic cell.

Human Sperm

The smallest cell in the human body, which is a type of eukaryotic cell.

Organelles

Membrane-bound structures such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus that perform specific functions within eukaryotic cells.

Peptidoglycan

The chemical component that makes up the cell wall of bacteria.

Cellulose

The substance that forms the cell wall in plant cells.

Chitin

The substance that forms the cell wall in fungi.

$70S$ Ribosomes

The smaller type of ribosomes found within prokaryotic cells.

$80S$ Ribosomes

The larger type of ribosomes found within eukaryotic cells.

Pilus

A bridge-like structure used by prokaryotes for the direct transfer of DNA to another cell.

Fimbriae

Small, hair-like structures used by prokaryotic cells for attachment.

Capsule

An outer protective layer found in some prokaryotic cells, external to the cell wall.

Circular DNA

The form of genetic material found within the nucleoid of prokaryotic cells.

Linear DNA

The form of genetic material found within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.