Biology Lecture on Cell Biology and Metabolism

These flashcards cover key concepts and processes related to cell biology and metabolism discussed in the lecture.

What is the primary function of mitochondria in cells?

The primary function of mitochondria is to produce ATP through aerobic respiration.

What role does oxygen play in cellular respiration?

Oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain during aerobic respiration.

What happens to muscles during anaerobic respiration?

During anaerobic respiration, muscles produce lactic acid, leading to fatigue.

What does the central vacuole in plant cells do?

The central vacuole primarily stores water and helps maintain turgor pressure in plant cells.

What is turgor pressure?

Turgor pressure is the pressure of the cell contents against the cell wall, contributing to the rigidity of the plant.

What is osmosis?

Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from areas of lower solute concentration to areas of higher solute concentration.

What is the significance of chloroplasts in plant cells?

Chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy (sugar).

What is the structure of a plant cell wall?

The plant cell wall is primarily made of cellulose, providing structural support.

How does the Golgi apparatus function in the cell?

The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport to different locations.

What is the relationship between chloroplasts and mitochondria?

Chloroplasts and mitochondria both have double membranes and are involved in energy processes; chloroplasts convert light to energy, while mitochondria produce ATP.

What is the function of lysosomes in the cell?

Lysosomes break down waste materials and cellular debris.

What is endosymbiosis?

Endosymbiosis is the theory that certain organelles, like mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated as separate prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by eukaryotic cells.

What is an isotonic solution?

An isotonic solution has the same solute concentration outside and inside the cell, causing no net water movement or change in cell shape. An example is human blood plasma, which is ideally isotonic to red blood cells.

How does a hypertonic solution affect cells, and what are its implications for human health?

In a hypertonic solution, the external solute concentration is higher, causing water to leave the cell and make it shrivel. In humans, high blood sugar (diabetes) can create a hypertonic environment, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, and potential edema.

What is the effect of a hypotonic solution on a cell?

A hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration outside the cell, causing water to rush into the cell, leading it to swell and potentially burst. This could occur, for example, if a plant is watered with distilled water.

How does the Golgi apparatus ensure proteins and lipids reach their correct destinations?

The Golgi apparatus employs 'chemical tags' (such as lipids or sugars) to direct proteins and lipids to their correct locations, functioning like a cellular sorting and packaging center.

What is the primary role of centrosomes in animal cells?

Centrosomes are the main microtubule-organizing centers in animal cells.