STAAR Science Review: Cell Structures, Human Body Systems, and Astronomy

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering essential cell biology, human anatomy, and astronomy concepts for the STAAR Science exam.

Cell Membrane

A selectively permeable phospholipid bilayer that controls what enters and leaves the cell; proteins allow transport.

Cell Wall

A cellulose-based outer layer found in plants that provides rigid support and protection but does not control entry or exit.

Nucleus

Organelle containing DNA that stores genetic information and directs protein production via gene expression.

Ribosomes

The site of protein synthesis where mRNA is translated to build proteins.

Cytoplasm

A gel-like fluid holding organelles that serves as the medium where chemical reactions occur.

Mitochondria

Organelle that produces ATP (energy) through cellular respiration by converting glucose and $O_2$ into ATP.

Chloroplasts

Plant-only organelles that perform photosynthesis by converting light energy, $CO_2$, and water into glucose.

Vacuoles

Organelles used for storage of water, nutrients, and wastes; the large central vacuole in plants maintains turgor pressure.

Circulatory (Cardiovascular) System

Transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and wastes through the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries), and blood.

Respiratory System

Facilitates gas exchange ($O_2$ in, $CO_2$ out) through inhalation, exhalation, and diffusion using the nose, trachea, bronchi, lungs, alveoli, and diaphragm.

Skeletal System

Provides support, protection, mineral storage, and blood cell production (hematopoiesis) using bones, cartilage, ligaments, and bone marrow.

Muscular System

Responsible for movement, posture, and heat production through contraction (actin & myosin sliding) of skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscles.

Digestive System

Breaks down food and absorbs nutrients through mechanical and chemical digestion in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.

Urinary (Excretory) System

Removes liquid wastes and maintains water balance through filtration, reabsorption, and urine formation in the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Reproductive System

Produces gametes and enables reproduction via meiosis and fertilization; includes structures such as testes and ovaries.

Integumentary System

Provides barrier protection, temperature regulation (sweating), and sensation through skin, hair, nails, and sweat glands.

Nervous System

Responsible for control, coordination, and rapid communication via the brain, spinal cord, nerves, electrical impulses, and reflex arcs.

Immune System

Defends against pathogens through recognition and response using white blood cells, lymph nodes, spleen, and antibodies.

Endocrine System

Provides long-term control and hormone regulation via glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, and pancreas.

HR Diagrams

Graphs assessing data literacy by reading two variables simultaneously (temperature and luminosity) and identifying star groups like main sequence, giants, supergiants, and white dwarfs.

Spectral Class

A classification system for stars ranging from O to M.

Spiral Galaxy

A flat rotating disk with spiral arms and a central bulge; contains young stars in the arms and older stars in the bulge with abundant gas and dust.

Elliptical Galaxy

A round to oval galaxy with a smooth, featureless light distribution; consists mostly of older stars with little gas or dust.

Irregular Galaxy

A galaxy with no definite shape, symmetry, or clear pattern; often asymmetrical or distorted and can be gas-rich.

Apparent Brightness

The brightness of a star as seen from Earth, which depends primarily on distance rather than just size or temperature.

Location of the Sun

The Sun is located on a spiral arm of the Milky Way, which is a spiral galaxy.