bio 101 - chapters 4.1-4.3

cell

the smallest unit of life that can function independently and perform all the necessary functions of life

eukaryotic vs prokaryotic

eukaryotic: large, has dna in nucleus

prokaryotic: small, no nucleus

ribosome

granular body in the cytoplasm that converts genetic info into protein

cell wall

protects and gives shape to the cell

nucleus

a membrane-enclosed structure that contains linear strands of dna

pili

hair-like projections that help prokaryotes attach to surfaces and then exchange dna with other cells

flagellum

a long, thin, whip-like appendage that projects from the cell; like a propellor

organelle

structure in cytoplasm that’s enclosed separately; the cell’s ‘organs’

chloroplast

organelle in plant and eukaryotic algae cells in which photosynthesis occurs

mitochondria 

organelle in plant and animal cells that converts the energy stored in food into a form usable by the cell; the powerhouse!

chromatin

the fibers of dna, which carry all hereditary information

cytoskeleton

the inner scaffolding of the cell made from proteins

cilia

short projections often found in large numbers on a single cell; can either move a cell or move particles along cell’s surface

endoplasmic reticulum 

a vast network of membranes within eukaryotic cells responsible for synthesizing, folding, and transporting proteins and lipids

vesicle

a small-pocket like sac that moves and stores proteins, hormones and chemicals