Comprehensive Study Guide: BIOL 1406

Cell Theory

All living organisms are composed of one or more cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Diffusion

The process by which cells transport nutrients and waste; relies on concentration gradients.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that lack a nucleus and have a simple structure, such as bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that contain a nucleus and organelles, such as those found in plants, animals, and fungi.

Fluid Mosaic Model

Description of the cell membrane structure, where a phospholipid bilayer is interspersed with proteins and cholesterol.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across cell membranes without the use of energy, following concentration gradients.

Active Transport

Movement of substances against a concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP).

Endocytosis

A bulk transport mechanism where materials are brought into the cell.

Exocytosis

A bulk transport mechanism where materials are expelled from the cell.

Macromolecules

Large molecules essential for life, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Enzymes

Proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Feedback Inhibition

A regulatory mechanism that prevents waste by stopping unnecessary biochemical reactions.

Glycolysis

The process of breaking down glucose to produce ATP; occurs in the cytoplasm and is anaerobic.

Krebs Cycle

A series of reactions in the mitochondria that generate electron carriers for the electron transport chain.

Electron Transport Chain (ETC)

The final stage of cellular respiration where the majority of ATP is produced using oxygen.

Gibbs Free Energy (ΔG)

A thermodynamic quantity that represents the amount of energy available to do work in a system.

Redox Reactions

Chemical reactions that involve the transfer of electrons; oxidation refers to losing electrons, while reduction refers to gaining electrons.

pH Scale

A measure of acidity or alkalinity, ranging from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral.

Buffers

Substances that stabilize pH levels in biological systems, such as the bicarbonate system in blood.