3 - Cell Anatomy and Physiology

Eukaryotic Cell

Eukaryotic Cell

Organisms with cells that have a true nucleus and organelles.

Prokaryotic Cell

Unicellular organisms without a true nucleus or organelles.

Plasma Membrane

The protective wall of the cell that separates internal structures from the external environment.

Cytosol

The gel-like fluid within a cell that contains dissolved proteins, enzymes, and other molecules.

Cytoplasm

The combination of cytosol, inclusions, and organelles (excluding the nucleus).

Organelles

Specialized structures within a cell that perform distinct functions.

Inclusions

Temporary structures within a cell involved in secretion and storage/transportation.

Mitochondria

Organelles responsible for ATP synthesis through cellular respiration.

Ribosome

The site of protein synthesis, made up of rRNA.

Endoplasmic Reticulum

An organelle involved in chemical reactions, with rough and smooth types.

Golgi Apparatus

Processes and repackages proteins and lipids received from the endoplasmic reticulum.

Lysosome

Contains enzymes for digesting various molecules and organelles within the cell.

Peroxisome

Contains enzymes for detoxifying substances and breaking down hydrogen peroxide.

Centrosome

Contains centrioles and is involved in microtubule formation for cell division.

Nucleus

The control center of the cell, housing most of the cell's DNA.

Nucleolus

Site of ribosome synthesis within the nucleus, containing rRNA.

Mitosis

The process of cell division resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Interphase

The phase of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division.

Cytokinesis

The final step of cell division where the cell splits into two identical cells.

Diffusion

The movement of molecules from a higher to a lower solute concentration.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semi-permeable membrane from a lower to a higher solute concentration.

Isotonic

A solution where solute concentration is equal inside and outside the cell.

Hypertonic

A solution with a higher solute concentration outside the cell, causing water to diffuse out.

Hypotonic

A solution with a lower solute concentration outside the cell, causing water to diffuse in.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules against a concentration gradient, requiring ATP.

Endocytosis

The process of taking in large molecules into the cell.

Exocytosis

The process of expelling large molecules from the cell.

Phagocytosis

A type of endocytosis where solid molecules are ingested by the cell.

Pinocytosis

A type of endocytosis where liquids are ingested by the cell.