Unit 1.1: Cell Structures, Functions, and Processes Flashcards

A comprehensive collection of vocabulary flashcards covering cell theory, levels of organization, cell specialization, prokaryotes vs. eukaryotes, endosymbiotic theory, and viruses.

Cell Theory

A fundamental biological theory stating three main components: 1. The cell is the basic unit of life, 2. All cells come from pre-existing cells, and 3. All living things are made of cells.

Levels of Organization

The structural hierarchy of living things, ordered from smallest (least complex) to largest (most complex): atoms, molecules, organelles, cells, tissues, organs, organ system, organism.

Kidney

A biological structure classified specifically at the organ level of organization.

CHARMING

An acronym used to remember the characteristics that classify organisms as living: Cells, Homeostasis, Adaptations, Reproduces, Metabolizes, Stimuli (response to), DNA, and Grows and develops.

Neuron

A specialized cell that transmits electrical and chemical signals through the nervous system.

Red Blood Cell

A specialized cell responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to body tissues.

Plant Leaf Cell

A plant cell that performs photosynthesis to convert light energy into chemical energy.

Skeletal Muscle Cell

An animal cell that contracts and relaxes to facilitate the voluntary movement of the skeleton.

Prokaryote

A simple organism, such as bacteria, that lacks a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryote

A complex organism, such as an animal or plant cell, that contains a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The theory explaining cell evolution from prokaryotic to eukaryotic cells, stating that mitochondria and chloroplasts were once free-living prokaryotes swallowed by larger cells that worked together rather than being digested; supported by evidence of their own DNA, double membranes, and ability to reproduce.

Membrane-Bound Organelles

Specialized structures in eukaryotic cells surrounded by a membrane that provide functional efficiency.

Specialized Cells

Cells structurally adapted to perform a specific function efficiently, allowing them to work together in an organism.

Stem Cell

An unspecialized cell that can divide to produce more cell types and differentiate into one or more cell types.

Virus

A non-living entity significantly smaller than eukaryotic or prokaryotic cells that requires an electron microscope to view; it contains DNA and proteins (capsid) but lacks cell structure, cannot metabolize, cannot maintain homeostasis, and cannot reproduce on its own.

Capsid

The protective protein head enclosing the DNA in a virus structure.