HiSet Life Science B: Cells

Cells Terms from the Life Science section of the HiSet book

Active Transport

The movement of molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy expenditure by the cell.

Anaphase

The stage of cell division when chromosomes separate and move to opposite poles of the cell.

Animal Cells

Eukaryotic cells that make up animal tissues, lacking cell walls and chloroplasts.

Cell

The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.

Cell Membrane

The semipermeable outer boundary of a cell that regulates what enters and exits.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria that provides structural support.

Chromosome

A structure containing DNA and proteins that carries genetic information.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance within a cell that contains organelles and where many cellular processes occur.

Diffusion

The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Diploid Cell

A cell containing two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

A network of membranes in eukaryotic cells involved in protein and lipid synthesis.

Gametes

Sex cells (eggs and sperm) that contain half the normal number of chromosomes.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion or use within the cell.

Haploid Cell

A cell containing only one set of chromosomes, typically found in gametes.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces gametes with half the normal number of chromosomes.

Metaphase

The stage of cell division when chromosomes align at the cell's equator.

Mitochondrion

The organelle responsible for cellular respiration and energy production.

Mitosis

The process of cell division that results in two identical daughter cells.

Nucleus

The membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's genetic material.

Nucleolus

A structure within the nucleus where ribosomal RNA is produced.

Organelles

Specialized structures within cells that perform specific functions.

Osmosis

The movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Plant Cells

Eukaryotic cells that make up plant tissues, characterized by cell walls, chloroplasts, and large vacuoles.

Prophase

The first stage of cell division when chromosomes condense and become visible.

Telophase

The final stage of cell division when nuclear membranes form around the separated chromosomes.