Cell Structure and Organelles (DETAILED) vs. Eukaryotic)

A set of practice flashcards covering key concepts about prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure, organelles, and functions based on the provided lecture notes.

What are the four common components shared by all cells?

Plasma membrane, cytoplasm, DNA, and ribosomes.

What major feature is lacking in prokaryotes that distinguishes them from eukaryotes?

A nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

In prokaryotic cells, where is the DNA located?

In the nucleoid region.

Name the structures that all prokaryotes possess.

Nucleoid, ribosomes, cell membrane, and cell wall.

What is the bacterial capsule and what does it do?

A polysaccharide layer that enables attachment to surfaces and provides protection.

What are flagella used for in prokaryotes?

Locomotion (movement).

What is the typical size range for prokaryotic cells?

0.1 to 5.0 μm in diameter.

How do eukaryotic cell sizes compare to prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells are roughly 10–100 μm in diameter.

Why is small cell size advantageous for prokaryotes?

It allows ions, small molecules, and wastes to diffuse quickly through the cell.

Why does the surface area-to-volume ratio change as a cell grows?

It decreases, making diffusion less efficient.

How can cells compensate for diffusion limits as they grow?

By dividing, folding the membrane to increase surface area, flattening/elongating, or developing organelles.

What does 'true nucleus' mean?

A nucleus that is membrane-bound (enclosed by a nuclear envelope) in eukaryotic cells.

What is an organelle?

A membrane-bound structure with a specific function within a cell.

What is the nucleus and its main function?

Houses DNA and directs synthesis of ribosomes and proteins.

What is the nuclear envelope?

A double-membrane structure surrounding the nucleus with nuclear pores; continuous with the endoplasmic reticulum.

What are chromatin and chromosomes?

Chromatin is DNA plus associated proteins; chromosomes are the condensed, visible forms of DNA during division.

What is the nucleolus?

A region where ribosomal RNA synthesis occurs and ribosome subunits are assembled.

What are ribosomes and what do they do?

Ribosomes are two-subunit RNA-protein complexes that synthesize proteins by translating mRNA.

Where can ribosomes be located in the cell?

In the cytoplasm, on the rough endoplasmic reticulum, or on the outer membrane of the nuclear envelope.

What is the rough endoplasmic reticulum responsible for?

Associated with ribosomes and makes secretory and membrane proteins.

What is the smooth endoplasmic reticulum responsible for?

Makes lipids.

What is the Golgi apparatus responsible for?

Modifies proteins and prepares them for secretion or delivery to their destinations.

What is the lysosome?

A organelle that digests food and waste materials.

What is the mitochondrion's function?

Produce energy (ATP) for the cell.

What is the plasma membrane and its function?

A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that separates the cell from its environment and regulates substances crossing the membrane.

What are microvilli and where are they typically found?

Fingerlike projections on the plasma membrane that increase surface area for absorption; typically found in the small intestine.

What disease damages microvilli and how?

Celiac disease; immune response to gluten damages microvilli, causing malabsorption.

What does the cytoplasm encompass?

The region between the plasma membrane and the nuclear envelope, containing cytosol, organelles, cytoskeleton, and dissolved chemicals.

What percentage of water does the cytosol/cytoplasm contain?

About 70–80% water.

What is chromatin and what does it describe?

DNA plus associated proteins; describes material that makes up chromosomes in both condensed and decondensed forms.

How many chromosomes do humans typically have in each cell?

46.

How many chromosomes do fruit flies have?

Eight.

What plant cell features are not found in animal cells?

Cell wall, chloroplasts, plastids, and a central vacuole.