Cell: The Unit of Life - Lecture Notes Review

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to cells, their structures, and functions, providing an effective study tool for understanding the unit of life.

Cell Theory

States that the cell is the smallest unit of structure and function in all living things, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Cell Membrane

A semi-permeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of a cell, allowing selective passage of substances.

Protoplasm

The living substance within a cell, composed of cytoplasm and nucleus.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance within a cell membrane that contains organelles and is the site of many metabolic reactions.

Nucleus

The control center of a cell that regulates cell activities and contains genetic material.

Eukaryotic Cell

A cell that has a well-defined nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane and contains membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotic Cell

A primitive cell that lacks a well-defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, e.g. bacteria.

Mitochondria

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

Ribosomes

Cell organelles that are the sites of protein synthesis.

Chloroplasts

Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis and contain chlorophyll.

Plastids

Organelles in plant cells that store starch or pigment.

Vacuoles

Membrane-bound compartments in cells that store various substances; large in plant cells.

Centrosome

An organelle only found in animal cells that is involved in cell division.

Lysosomes

Organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Golgi Apparatus

The cell's packaging organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

An organelle that transports materials within a cell and aids in the synthesis of proteins and lipids.

Chromatin

Substance within the nucleus consisting of DNA and proteins, which condenses to form chromosomes during cell division.

DNA

Deoxyribonucleic acid, the hereditary material in all living organisms.

Gene

A segment of DNA that contains instructions for building proteins and determining traits.

Cell Wall

A rigid layer found in plant cells that provides support and protection; made of cellulose.

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy, carbon dioxide, and water.