Chapter 4: Cell Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts in the lecture about cell structure and function.

Cell Theory

The theory that all organisms are composed of cells, cells are the basic units of structure and function in organisms, and cells come from pre-existing cells.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that do not have a true nucleus; means 'before nucleus'.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; means 'true nucleus'.

Surface Area to Volume Ratio

A higher ratio allows for better exchange of materials into and out of the cell, explaining why most cells are small.

Cytoplasm

The semi-fluid solution within the plasma membrane that contains water and organic molecules.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The theory that eukaryotic cells evolved from prokaryotic cells through endosymbiosis.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures that synthesize proteins; present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Plasma Membrane

A phospholipid bilayer that regulates the entry and exit of substances in and out of the cell.

Flagella

Whip-like structures that aid in locomotion for some prokaryotic cells.

Capsule

A layer of polysaccharide outside the cell wall of some bacteria that protects the cell from desiccation.

Nucleus

The organelle that houses the cell's DNA; most prominent in eukaryotic cells.

Organelles

Specialized structures within a cell that carry out distinct functions.

Microbiome

The assemblage of prokaryotes on or in an organism.

Thylakoids

Membranes within chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll and are involved in photosynthesis.

Prokaryote rod shape

Bacillus

Prokaryote sphere shape

Coccus

Prokaryote long rigid spiraled rod

Spirillum

Prokaryote long flexible spiraled rod

Spirochete

Three parts of a cell envelope (only in prokaryotes)

Plasma membrane, cell wall, glycocalyx(capsule)

Cyanobacteria

Bacteria that makes its own food

Endoplasmic reticulum

Metabolizes proteins and lipids

Golgi apparatus

Processes, packages, and secretes modified proteins

Lysosomes

Digest material entering the cell and destroy nonfunctional organelles and portions of the cytoplasm