Cellular Biology, Genetics, and Enzymes Flashcards

Flashcards covering key vocabulary from a lecture on cellular energy, genetics, enzymes, and cell division.

Photosynthesis

The process used by plants, algae, and some bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

Chlorophyll

The primary pigment in plants, absorbs red and blue wavelengths of light most effectively, reflecting green light.

Light-Dependent Reactions

Capture light energy, split water (releasing O2), and produce energy carriers ATP and NADPH.

Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle)

Use the ATP and NADPH from the light reactions to fix CO2 and synthesize glucose.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed.

Substrate

The specific molecule that an enzyme acts upon.

Gene

A specific segment of DNA that codes for a trait or protein.

Allele

A specific version or variety of a gene.

Point Mutation (Substitution)

Change a single base in the DNA sequence.

Frameshift Mutation

Caused by insertions or deletions of nucleotides in numbers not divisible by three, shifting the reading frame.

Dominant Alleles

Alleles that express their trait even if only one copy is present.

Recessive Alleles

Alleles that only express their trait if two copies are present.

X-Linked Inheritance

Traits carried on the X chromosome.

Polygenic Inheritance

A single trait controlled by the additive effects of two or more genes.

Non-disjunction

Failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division.