A Tour of the Cell

These flashcards cover essential concepts related to cell biology, including microscopy, cell theory, organelle functions, and structural components of cells.

What did Robert Hooke first observe in 1665?

Cells.

Who described microorganisms, sperm, and pond water organisms with refined lenses?

Antoni van Leeuwenhoek.

What does magnification refer to?

The increase in the apparent size of an object.

What is the definition of resolution in microscopy?

The ability to show two close objects as separate.

What type of microscope uses light to view specimens?

Light microscope (LM).

What is the maximum magnification of light microscopes?

Up to 1,000 times the actual size.

What is the function of an electron microscope (EM)?

Focuses a beam of electrons to view specimens.

What are the two types of electron microscopes?

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM).

What does cell theory state?

All living things are composed of cells; all cells come from other cells; cells are the basic units of structure and function in all life.

What is the primary component of the plasma membrane?

Phospholipid bilayer.

What structures allow for the transport of molecules across the plasma membrane?

Membrane proteins acting as channels or pumps.

What are prokaryotic cells?

Cells that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles.

What surrounds the DNA in prokaryotic cells?

Nucleoid.

What is one major difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles.

What organelles are involved in the genetic control of a eukaryotic cell?

Nucleus and ribosomes.

What does the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) do?

Makes additional membrane and proteins for secretion.

What does the Golgi apparatus do?

Finishes, sorts, and ships cell products.

What is the function of lysosomes?

Contain digestive enzymes to break down macromolecules.

What do vacuoles do in plant cells?

Store nutrients, waste products, and help in maintaining turgor pressure.

What process do mitochondria facilitate?

Cellular respiration.

What is the function of chloroplasts?

Convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

What do both mitochondria and chloroplasts have in common?

They have their own DNA and ribosomes.

What is the primary component of plant cell walls?

Cellulose.

How do lysosomes react to damaged organelles?

They fuse with vesicles containing damaged parts to digest them.

What is the primary function of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?

Synthesize lipids and detoxify harmful substances.

How do proteins synthesized by ribosomes get to the Golgi apparatus?

Transport vesicles.