Cell Biology Overview

These flashcards cover essential concepts regarding cell structure, function, microscopy, and types of cells, helping to prepare for exams on cellular biology.

What is the total magnification of a microscope calculated by?

Total magnification = magnification of eyepiece lens X magnification of objective lens.

What are the advantages of light microscopes?

Light microscopes are inexpensive, portable, and can see living cells directly.

What is a significant disadvantage of light microscopes?

They have lower power of resolution and magnification compared to electron microscopes.

What is the function of ribosomes?

Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis.

What type of ribosome is found in prokaryotes and some organelles like mitochondria?

70S ribosomes.

What are three organelles that cannot be seen with a light microscope?

Ribosomes, Golgi bodies, and lysosomes.

What are the advantages of electron microscopes?

Higher power of magnification and resolution.

What is a disadvantage of electron microscopes?

They cannot view living tissue and are expensive.

What is the role of the nucleus in a cell?

The nucleus controls cell activity and contains DNA.

What organelle is responsible for aerobic respiration?

Mitochondria.

What are the components of the Golgi body?

Curved cisternae and vesicles that modify and transport proteins.

What type of bacteria stains pink in a Gram stain?

Gram-negative bacteria due to their thin peptidoglycan wall.

What are the three shapes of bacteria?

Bacillus (rod-shaped), Coccus (spherical), and Spirilla (spiral).

What do obligate anaerobes require for survival?

They can only survive without oxygen.

How do proteins get modified in the Golgi apparatus?

Proteins are modified by adding carbohydrates to form glycoproteins.

What is the function of lysosomes?

Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes to break down waste materials and cellular debris.

What does the term 'apoptosis' refer to?

The process of programmed cell death.