General Biology - Lesson 1.1: General Function of the Cell

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to cell structure, function, energy, regulation, and defense from the lecture notes.

Cell

The basic building block of all living things.

Living organism

An organism that grows and can reproduce.

Microscope

An optical instrument used to view very small objects or organisms, such as cells.

Theory (scientific)

A well-tested, widely accepted explanation for a natural phenomenon based on a large body of evidence.

Cell analogy

Cells function like building bricks; when combined, they perform the essential life-sustaining functions.

Atom

The basic unit of matter.

Protein

A large biological molecule made of amino acids; essential for structure and function of cells.

Lipids

Hydrophobic molecules (fats, oils) that store energy and form cell membranes.

Mitochondria

Organelles that generate most of a cell's energy.

Virus

A biological agent (e.g., flu virus) that replicates inside living host cells.

Electron microscope

A microscope that uses electrons to achieve higher magnification than light microscopes.

Light microscope

A microscope that uses visible light to magnify specimens.

Naked eye

Observation without magnification; visible without any instruments.

Homeostasis

The self-regulating process by which biological systems maintain stable internal conditions.

Regulation of the internal environment

Mechanisms that keep internal conditions within optimal ranges for function.

Acquisition and Utilization of Energy

How cells obtain energy and convert it into usable forms for work.

Responsiveness to the environment

The ability of cells to detect and respond to changes in their surroundings.

Protection and Support

Structural and defensive roles of cells and organisms to maintain integrity.

Chemical energy

Energy stored in chemical bonds of molecules; converted by cells into usable forms.

Pigmentation (melanin)

Production/deposition of pigment in the skin to protect DNA from UV radiation.

Immune cells

Cells that provide protection against pathogens and foreign bodies.