Cell Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key terms related to cell structure and function, including definitions and descriptions of various organelles and cellular components.

Cell Membrane

A thin, flexible covering that surrounds every cell, controlling the transport of substances in and out, providing a barrier, aiding in communication and identification.

Cytoplasm

A jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of a cell, surrounding organelles and serving as the site for many chemical reactions.

Ribosomes

Tiny, round structures found in all cells that are responsible for making proteins.

Chromosomes

DNA wrapped around proteins found in cells that stores genetic information in the form of genes.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer that surrounds the cell membrane in certain organisms, providing extra support and protection.

Flagellum

Long, whip-like structures found on some cells that help in movement through liquids.

Nucleus

A large organelle in eukaryotic cells that houses DNA and serves as the control center of the cell.

Nucleolus

A small, dense structure found inside the nucleus of eukaryotic cells responsible for making ribosomes.

Mitochondrion

Bean-shaped organelles in eukaryotic cells that produce energy in the form of ATP during cellular respiration.

Chloroplast

Green, oval-shaped organelles in plant cells that carry out photosynthesis to produce food and oxygen.

Centrioles

Cylindrical structures in animal cells that help in organizing spindle fibers during cell division.

Vacuole

A membrane-bound sac in eukaryotic cells responsible for storage of materials like water and nutrients.

Golgi Apparatus

A stack of membrane-bound sacs that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport.

Lysosome

Small organelles filled with digestive enzymes that digest and recycle worn-out cell parts.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (Rough and Smooth)

A network of folded membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis; once made, this network of tubes helps to transport the proteins and lipids through the cell.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers that provides shape, support, and movement for eukaryotic cells.

Cilia

Tiny, hair-like structures on some cells that help in movement and the movement of materials across cell surfaces.

Plant Cells

Eukaryotic cells. They have a cell wall made of cellulose, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a large central vacuole that stores water and helps maintain shape. They make their own food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.

Animal Cells

Eukaryotic cells, but they don’t have a cell wall or chloroplasts. They come in many shapes and work together in tissues and organs. They get energy by consuming and breaking down food through cellular respiration in the mitochondria.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simple cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Their DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm. These include bacteria and archaea, which are usually unicellular and reproduce quickly.

Eukaryotic Cells

Complex cells with a nucleus (where DNA is stored) and membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, chloroplasts, and the endoplasmic reticulum. All plants, animals, fungi, and protists are made of these cells.