bio

Cell Structure

The organization of various components within a cell that perform specific functions.

Organelles

Specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct processes necessary for the cell's function.

Prokaryotic Cells

Single-celled organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles.

Eukaryotic Cells

Organisms whose cells contain a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles.

Cell Membrane

A semi-permeable membrane that surrounds the cell, controlling the movement of substances in and out.

Permeable

Allows all molecules to pass through the cell membrane.

Impermeable

Does not allow any molecules to pass through.

Selectively Permeable

Allows only certain molecules to pass through the cell membrane.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell, where energy is produced through cellular respiration.

Chloroplast

Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis.

Golgi Body

Packages proteins and lipids made by the endoplasmic reticulum into vesicles for transport.

Lysosomes

Organelles that digest and recycle cellular waste.

Vacuoles

Storage organelles for water and nutrients; larger in plant cells.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions.

Activation Energy

The minimum energy required for a chemical reaction to occur.

Lock and Key Model Theory

An enzyme's active site is thought to fit precisely with its substrate, like a key in a lock.

Induced-Fit Model Theory

The active site of an enzyme changes shape to accommodate the substrate.

Coenzymes

Non-protein molecules that assist enzymes in their action.

Denaturing

Permanent alteration of an enzyme's structure which inhibits its function.

Metabolism

The total sum of all chemical reactions within a living organism.

Anabolic Metabolism

The metabolic process that builds larger molecules from smaller ones.

Catabolic Metabolism

The metabolic process that breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones.

Rate of Reaction

The speed at which a chemical reaction occurs, often influenced by enzyme activity.

Magnification

The process of enlarging the appearance of an object under a microscope.