Cell Types and Cell Theory

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to cell types, the cell theory, and the theory of endosymbiosis.

Prokaryotic Cell

Unicellular organisms like bacteria and archaea; lack membrane-bound organelles and have a non-membrane bound nucleoid.

Eukaryotic Cell

Multicellular organisms like animals, plants, fungi, and protists; contain membrane-bound organelles and a membrane-bound nucleus.

Cell Theory

The theory stating that all life is composed of cells and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Endosymbiosis

The theory that eukaryotic cells evolved from prokaryotic cells via symbiotic relationships.

Surface Area to Volume Ratio

A measurement that affects the rate of exchange of nutrients and wastes in cells; smaller cells have a higher ratio.

Compartmentalization

The division of cellular functions into various compartments or organelles, making processes more efficient in eukaryotic cells.

Louis Pasteur

Scientist known for testing the 'all cells arise from cells' hypothesis through his sterilization experiments.

Nucleus

The organelle that contains DNA, which codes for all proteins in eukaryotic cells.

Mitochondria

Organelles that generate ATP, commonly referred to as the powerhouses of the cell.

Chloroplast

Organelles found in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins; found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Cell Wall

A rigid layer that provides structural support and protection in prokaryotic cells and plants, not found in animal cells.

Lysosome

An organelle that digests and recycles foreign materials and waste products in eukaryotic cells.

Genetic Material in Prokaryotes

DNA that is circular and can be arranged in a single chromosome.

Plasmodesmata

Channels between plant cells that allow for communication and transport.

Endocytosis

The process by which a cell engulfs materials from its environment; occurs in eukaryotic cells.

Epithelial Cell

A type of cell that lines surfaces and cavities in the body; can be used in calculations involving surface area to volume ratios.

Asgard Archaeon

An archaeal ancestor that may be key to understanding the evolution of eukaryotic cells.

Experimental Evidence

Evidence gathered through experiments that confirm or disprove scientific hypotheses.

Observational Evidence

Evidence gathered through observation, highlighting similarities or patterns noted in nature.

Theory of Endosymbiosis Evidence

Mitochondria and chloroplasts having their own DNA and ribosomes similar to bacteria, supporting the endosymbiotic theory.