Cell Biology and Transport

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to cell biology and transport.

Eukaryotic cell

Cells that contain DNA in a nucleus; includes animal and plant cells.

Prokaryotic cell

Single-celled organisms without a nucleus, such as bacteria, which have a single loop of DNA.

Diffusion

The spreading out of particles from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

Osmosis

The movement of water from a dilute solution to a concentrated solution through a partially permeable membrane.

Active transport

The movement of particles against the concentration gradient using energy from respiration.

Cell membrane

A structure that controls the movement of substances in and out of a cell.

Mitochondria

Organelles where energy is released through respiration.

Chloroplasts

Organelle that contains chlorophyll and is necessary for photosynthesis.

Ribosome

Site of protein synthesis in a cell.

Cell wall

A rigid layer made of cellulose that strengthens and supports plant cells.

Haemoglobin

A red pigment in red blood cells that binds oxygen.

Diffusion gradient

The difference in concentration between two areas, affecting the rate of diffusion.

Alveoli

Small air sacs in the lungs that provide a large surface area for gas exchange.

Root hair cell

A specialized cell that absorbs water and minerals from the soil.

Villi

Small projections in the intestines that increase surface area for absorption of nutrients.

Palisade cell

A leaf cell that contains many chloroplasts for photosynthesis.

Myelin sheath

An insulating layer around a nerve axon that increases the speed of electrical impulses.

Concentration gradient

The gradual change in concentration of solutes in a solution between two regions.

Magnification

The process of enlarging the appearance of an object.

Resolution

The ability of a microscope to distinguish between two separate points.

Plasmid

Small rings of DNA found in prokaryotic cells, separate from the chromosomal DNA.

Permanent vacuole

A storage space in plant cells filled with cell sap, maintaining cell turgidity.