Cell+Structure+and+Function

What is the primary function of the light microscope (LM)?

To magnify specimens up to 1,000 times their actual size.

What does the term 'resolution' refer to in microscopy?

The ability of an instrument to show two nearby objects as separate.

What is the main difference between a light microscope and an electron microscope (EM)?

The EM uses a beam of electrons and can resolve structures as small as 2 nanometers, while the LM uses light.

What are the two fundamental components of cell theory?

All living things are composed of cells and all cells come from other cells.

Why are small cells more efficient in terms of surface area relative to their volume?

They have more surface area relative to their volume, facilitating better nutrient and oxygen acquisition.

What is the role of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (Rough ER)?

To produce additional membrane and secretory proteins.

What are lysosomes, and what is their function?

Membrane-enclosed sacs of digestive enzymes that digest food, destroy bacteria, and recycle damaged organelles.

What is the function of vacuoles in cells?

To maintain the general functions of the cell, including storage and digestion.

How do chloroplasts function in plants?

They convert light energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis.

What is the endosymbiont theory?

It states that mitochondria and chloroplasts were once small prokaryotes that began living within larger cells.

What is the role of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells?

To support cell shape, anchor organelles, and facilitate movement.

What differences exist between cilia and flagella?

Cilia are shorter and move like oars, while flagella are longer and move in a whiplike motion.

What are the components of the extracellular matrix?

Glycoproteins, collagen fibers, and connecting glycoproteins that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.

What is the main purpose of the Golgi apparatus?

To modify, sort, and ship cell products, acting as a molecular warehouse and processing station.

What are the primary functions of mitochondria?

To carry out cellular respiration and convert chemical energy in food into ATP.

What are prokaryotic cells characterized by?

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

What is the function of the plasma membrane?

To regulate what enters and leaves the cell.

What is the main function of ribosomes?

To synthesize proteins by translating messenger RNA.

What is the role of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (Smooth ER)?

To synthesize lipids and detoxify drugs and poisons.

What organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell?

Mitochondria, due to their role in producing ATP.

What is the primary structure of chromatin?

DNA wrapped around histone proteins, forming a complex known as chromatin.

What is the function of the nucleolus?

To produce ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and assemble ribosome subunits.

What is the purpose of the cell wall in plant cells?

To provide structure, support, and protection to the cell.

What is osmosis?

The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

What are the components of the cell's cytoplasm?

Cytosol, organelles, and other substances in the cell.

What are the different types of junctions between animal cells?

Tight junctions, gap junctions, and desmosomes.

What role do peroxisomes play in cells?

They perform oxidative reactions and detoxify harmful substances.

How do lysosomal enzymes function?

They break down macromolecules, damaged organelles, and pathogens.

What is the purpose of the cytoplasmic streaming process?

To facilitate the movement of materials within the cell.

What is the function of the Golgi apparatus in protein processing?

To modify, package, and transport proteins for secretion or use within the cell.