Bio 101 - Cell Biology

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to cell biology, helping reinforce key concepts for the BIO 101 exam.

Biology

The study of living things, encompassing cellular basis, energy metabolism, genetics, evolutionary relationships, and diversity of life.

Cell Theory

The theory that states all living species are composed of cells, a cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Cytoplasm

The fluid within a cell, containing organelles and biomolecules, and enclosed by the cell membrane.

Prokaryotes

Simpler, single-celled organisms without a nucleus, including bacteria and archaebacteria.

Eukaryotes

More complex organisms with a true nucleus, including plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Cell organelles

Structures within a cell that perform specific functions necessary for life processes.

Mitosis

A process where a parent cell divides to form two identical daughter cells, essential for growth and repair.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, producing four haploid cells, crucial for sexual reproduction.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen.

Aerobic respiration

The process of producing cellular energy involving oxygen to convert glucose into ATP.

Lysosomes

Cell organelles that contain digestive enzymes for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris.

Endoplasmic reticulum

An organelle involved in protein and lipid synthesis; consists of smooth and rough regions.

Plasmodesmata

Channels in plant cell walls that allow for intercellular communication and transport of materials.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that carry out photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll for light absorption.

Vacuole

A membrane-bound space within a cell that stores substances such as water, nutrients, and waste products.

Nucleus

The membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains the genetic material (DNA).

Cilia

Hair-like structures on the surface of some cells that aid in movement of fluids or small particles.

Centriole

A cylindrical organelle involved in cell division, found in animal cells.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment found in chloroplasts that is essential for photosynthesis.

Cells

The smallest units of life, composed of one or more cells that can replicate independently.

Microtubules

Polymers of tubulin that form the cytoskeleton and are essential for maintaining cell shape and cellular functions.

Hydrostatic skeleton

A fluid-filled cavity that provides support and helps in movement in some soft-bodied animals.

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.