ATP and Cell Theory (Lecture Notes)

Flashcards covering ATP as universal energy source and the cell theory, including prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells.

What is ATP and what is its role in living organisms?

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the universal energy currency of life; all organisms use it for energy, and it is rapidly broken down and not stored long-term. Turnover is roughly equal to body weight per day (e.g., a 150‑lb person ~150 ATP daily).

Can ATP be stored in organisms?

No. ATP cannot be stored; it is continuously produced and rapidly broken down for energy.

What is the basic unit of life?

The cell.

How many cells does the human body roughly contain?

Humans are multicellular and contain about 100 trillion cells.

What does the cell theory state about the origin of cells?

All cells come from preexisting cells.

What are the two major cell types based on organization?

Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells.

To which domain do humans belong?

Domain Eukarya (Eukaryotes).

What is a key feature of a eukaryotic cell?

Has a nucleus, plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and membrane-bound organelles.

What characterizes a prokaryotic cell?

Lacks a true nucleus; has a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and a nucleoid region; no true membrane-bound organelles.

What is the nucleoid in prokaryotes?

A region where the cell's DNA is located; not a true nucleus.

What are membrane-bound organelles?

Membrane-enclosed structures in a cell that perform specialized functions.

What is the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes regarding organelles?

Prokaryotes lack true membrane-bound organelles; eukaryotes possess them.