AP Bio Unit 2 Notes

Currently in the works, more will be added.

Genome

The complete set of genetic material in a living organism, indicating common ancestry.

Ribosome

A cellular structure that synthesizes proteins based on mRNA sequences, composed of rRNA and proteins.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A network of membrane tubes in eukaryotic cells, with two forms:Rough ER and Smooth ER.

Rough ER

ER with ribosomes attached, involved in packaging newly synthesized proteins for export.

Smooth ER

ER without ribosomes, involved in detoxification and lipid synthesis.

Golgi Complex (Golgi Apparatus)

A series of flattened membrane-bound sacs that modify, fold, and package proteins for trafficking.

Mitochondria

Organelles with a double membrane that produce ATP energy for cellular work.

Lysosomes

Membrane-enclosed sacs containing hydrolytic enzymes for digesting damaged cell parts and macromolecules.

Vacuoles

Membrane-bound sacs in eukaryotic cells for storage and waste release.

Chloroplast

Organelles in photosynthetic eukaryotic cells that capture solar energy and produce sugar.

Cytosol

A semifluid substance where subcellular components are suspended.

Chromosomes

Structures that carry genes in the form of DNA.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells with a true nucleus, larger than prokaryotic cells, containing organelles.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells without a true nucleus or organelles, smaller than eukaryotic cells.

Mycoplasmas

The smallest known cells, classified as a bacteria.

Plasma Membrane

A selective barrier that regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell.

Biological Membranes

Double layers of phospholipids and other lipids that define cell structure and function.

Surface Area to Volume Ratio

As cell size increases, surface area grows less proportionally than volume, affecting efficiency.

Cell Size

Larger organisms typically consist of more cells rather than larger individual cells.