Cell Biology: Mitochondria, Nucleus, and Cell Division

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on cell biology, focusing on mitochondria, nucleus functionality, and the processes of cell division.

What is a primary function of mitochondria?

Generate ATP through reactions of aerobic cellular respiration.

What important role do mitochondria play besides ATP production?

They play an important early role in apoptosis.

What structure surrounds the nucleus?

A double membrane called the nuclear envelope.

What are nuclear pores responsible for?

They control the movement of substances between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.

What is the function of nucleoli?

They produce ribosomes.

What genetic material is found within chromosomes?

Genes control cellular structure and direct cellular activities.

What is chromatin?

A complex of DNA, proteins, and some RNA that exists in the nucleus.

What process leads to the division of somatic cells?

Mitosis followed by cytokinesis.

What happens during the G1 phase of the cell cycle?

The cell duplicates most of its organelles and cytosolic components.

What occurs during the S phase of the cell cycle?

DNA replication takes place.

What is the distinction between somatic cells and germ cells?

Somatic cells are any body cell other than a germ cell; germ cells are gametes.

What are the two types of cell division?

Somatic cell division and reproductive cell division.

What characterizes meiosis as opposed to mitosis?

Meiosis consists of two successive divisions and results in gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

What is the result of crossing-over during meiosis?

It allows for genetic recombination and increases genetic variation.

What phase of the cell cycle features visible chromosomes under a light microscope?

The mitotic phase.

What type of cell death is apoptosis?

An orderly, genetically programmed death.