Cell Size and Compartmentalization

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding cell size and compartmentalization, including units of measurement and specifics about cell types.

Compartmentalization

The organization of cellular structures into distinct units to increase efficiency in biochemical processes.

Micrometer (um)

A unit of measurement equal to one millionth of a meter (10^-6 m), often used to measure cells.

Amoeba

A single-celled organism that typically measures around 500 um in size.

Surface Area to Volume Ratio

A measurement that describes how much surface area a cell has relative to its volume, which decreases as cell size increases.

Specialization

A condition where certain cells adapt to perform specific functions more effectively, often seen with flat-shaped cells.

E. Coli

A type of bacteria commonly used in biology that is approximately 3 um in size.

Phospholipid

A type of lipid that forms the cell membrane, measuring about 3.4 nm in size.

Red blood cell

A type of cell in the blood responsible for oxygen transport, measuring about 8 um.

X chromosome

A chromosome that is typically about 7 um in size.

Ribosome

A small particle in a cell that synthesizes proteins, measuring about 30 nm.