Chapter 04: Cell Structure

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to cell structure and function.

Cell Theory

The theory that states all organisms are composed of cells, cells are the smallest living things, and cells arise only from pre-existing cells.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simplest cells that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and have DNA located in a nucleoid.

Eukaryotic Cells

More complex cells that possess a membrane-bound nucleus and various organelles.

Diffusion

The movement of substances in and out of cells, which is affected by surface area, temperature, concentration gradient, and distance.

Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio

As a cell’s size increases, its volume increases more rapidly than its surface area, affecting its ability to exchange materials.

Resolution

The minimum distance two points can be apart and still be distinguished as two separate points.

Light Microscopes

Microscopes that use visible light to magnify objects and have a resolution limit of 200 nm.

Electron Microscopes

Microscopes that use a beam of electrons to resolve structures at a much smaller scale (0.2 nm).

Nucleus

The organelle that contains the cell's genetic information and is associated with ribosomal RNA synthesis in eukaryotic cells.

Ribosomes

Cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis, found in all cell types and involved in translating mRNA.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer that makes up the cell walls of bacteria and provides structural support.

Cytoskeleton

The network of fibers that helps maintain a cell's shape and provides mechanical support.

Chloroplasts

Plant cell organelles that conduct photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy.

Cell Wall

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

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures used by some prokaryotic cells for locomotion.

Capsule

A gelatinous outer layer that provides additional protection to some prokaryotic cells.