Cell Biology and Characteristics of Living Organisms

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts in cellular biology and characteristics of living organisms.

Living Organisms

Any entities that possess cellular organization, respond to stimuli, and maintain homeostasis.

Prokaryotes

Simple types of cells that lack membrane-bound organelles, including bacteria.

Eukaryotes

More complex types of cells that contain membrane-bound organelles.

Cell Theory

States that the smallest unit of life is a single cell.

Gene Theory

Poses that genetic material is double-stranded DNA present in all living cells.

Homeostasis

The ability of a living organism to maintain stable internal conditions.

Metabolism

The sum of all biochemical reactions that occur within a living organism.

Glycocalyx

A sticky outer layer of some bacteria that helps adhesion and prevents desiccation.

Flagella

Whip-like structures that enable motility in some bacteria.

Fimbriae

Thin, hair-like extensions of bacteria that aid in adhesion.

Peptidoglycan

A complex carbohydrate found in the cell walls of bacteria, essential for their structural integrity.

Gram Positive

Bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall and stain purple.

Gram Negative

Bacteria with a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that stain pink.

Conjugation Pili

Hollow tubes used by bacteria to transfer genetic material between cells.