Biology 211: Biomolecules and Cellular Systems - Topic 1 Filled slides -

Flashcards covering key concepts from Biology 211, focusing on biomolecules and cellular systems.

Eukarya

One of the three domains of life that includes organisms with complex cells containing a nucleus.

Prokaryotic Cells

Unicellular organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus; includes bacteria and archaea.

Endosymbiosis

A symbiotic relationship in which one organism lives inside another, leading to the evolution of complex cells.

SA:V ratio

Surface area to volume ratio; important for the efficiency of cellular processes.

Chemolithotroph

Organisms that obtain energy from inorganic compounds.

Ribosome

Molecular machinery in cells responsible for protein synthesis.

Mitochondria

Organelles responsible for energy production through respiration in eukaryotic cells.

Chloroplasts

Organelles found in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that helps maintain cell shape, involved in cell division and intracellular transport.

Endomembrane System

A system of membranes that divide the cell into functional and structural compartments.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The transfer of genetic material between organisms in a manner other than traditional reproduction.

Chemotroph

Organisms that obtain their energy by consuming organic or inorganic compounds.

Phototroph

Organisms that obtain energy from light.

Autotroph

Organisms that produce their own food from inorganic substances.

Heterotroph

Organisms that consume organic compounds for nutrition.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The theory that certain organelles in eukaryotic cells originated from free-living prokaryotes that entered into a symbiotic relationship.

Microtubules

Components of the cytoskeleton made of tubulin that support cell structure and are involved in transport.

Intermediate Filaments

Components of the cytoskeleton that provide structural support to cells.

Microfilaments

Thin filaments of the cytoskeleton involved in muscle contraction and cell movement.

5-Kingdom Classification

A historical biological classification system that includes Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia.

3-Domain System

A classification system that divides cellular life into three domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to variation in traits.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant and bacterial cells that provides support and protection.