Cells 2

Vocabulary flashcards covering the stages of the cell cycle, leaf anatomy, and plant and animal cell organelles based on lecture notes.

Cell Cycle

A series of stages a cell goes through as it grows, copies DNA, and divides into new cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle consisting of growth and preparation stages (G1, G2) and DNA replication (S phase).

G1 Phase

The stage of interphase involving growth and preparation for DNA replication.

S Phase

The stage of interphase where DNA replication occurs.

G2 Phase

The stage of interphase involving growth and preparation for mitosis.

Mitosis

The process in the mitotic phase where copied chromosomes are separated into 2 identical nuclei.

Cytokinesis

The process where a cell physically splits into 2 daughter cells.

Upper Epidermis

A protective layer of the leaf allowing light to reach palisade cells.

Palisade Mesophyll

Leaf cells located close to the top of the leaf that contain the most chloroplasts and are oval shaped to fit lots of cells for maximum light absorption.

Spongy Mesophyll

Leaf tissue containing air spaces for $CO_2$ to move to photosynthesising cells, as well as some chloroplasts.

Guard Cells

Cells that control stomata for gas exchange, allowing them to close when water levels are low.

Stomata

Holes in the leaf used for gas exchange.

Cell Wall

Cellular structure that provides strength, structure, and shape, and resists internal water pressure to prevent the cell from expanding.

Cell Membrane

Semi-permeable barrier that controls movement of substances in and out of the cell and separates the interior from the outside environment.

Chloroplasts

The site of photosynthesis where glucose is produced; contains chlorophyll in the thylakoid to absorb light.

Central Vacuole

Organelle that stores water, nutrients, and waste products, maintaining internal pressure to keep the plant upright.

Mitochondria

The site of aerobic respiration where ATP is produced, structured with an outer membrane, inner membrane, cristae, and matrix.

Nucleus

Organelle that stores and protects the cell's DNA.

Cytoplasm

The site for chemical reactions and metabolic processes inside the cell.

Ribosomes

The site of protein synthesis where amino acids are joined together in the correct order to make proteins using instruction from mRNA.