Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Flashcards covering key concepts and terms related to prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including characteristics, classifications, and roles in biology.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, with their genetic material not enclosed within a nuclear membrane.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that possess a true nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane and contain membrane-bound organelles.

Binary Fission

A method of asexual reproduction in prokaryotic cells where the cell divides into two identical cells.

Mitosis

A process of cell division in eukaryotic cells that results in two identical daughter cells.

Capsid

The outer protein coat of a virus composed of repeating subunits called capsomeres.

Obligate Intracellular Parasites

Organisms that can only reproduce inside a host cell, such as viruses.

Bacteriophages

Viruses that specifically infect bacteria, playing a role in bacterial virulence and genetic exchange.

Peptidoglycan

A polymer that makes up the cell wall of bacteria, providing structural support.

Chitin

A structural polysaccharide found in the cell wall of fungi.

Protozoa

Unicellular eukaryotic organisms that can cause parasitic infections.

Diatoms

Unicellular algae with cell walls containing silica, found in freshwater and marine environments.

Dinoflagellates

Unicellular phytoplankton that are significant in marine ecosystems and can produce harmful neurotoxins.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance within a cell that contains organelles and is where many cellular processes occur.

Bacterial Flagellum

A long, whip-like structure used for movement in bacteria.

Pellicle

The outer surface of protozoa.

Cyst

The infective stage of protozoa, known for surviving in harsh environments.

Trophozoite

The pathogenic and motile stage of protozoa.

Capsomeres

The subunits that make up the capsid of a virus.

Algae

Eukaryotic, plant-like organisms capable of photosynthesis, generally nonpathogenic to humans.

Molds

are fungi form in unicellular fibers called hyphae

Yeast

are unicellular that do not form visible structure

Bacteria

are prokaryotic organisms, most of which possess a cell wall composed of peptidoglycan

Fungi

are eukaryotic organisms with a cell wall composed mainly of chitin and a cell membrane rich in ergosterol. They may be unicellular (yeasts) or multicellular (molds)

Protozoa

unicellular eukaryotic organisms and are important representatives of parasitic infections. Their outer surface is called a pellicle.

Algae

eukaryotic, plant-like organisms with cell walls composed primarily of cellulose.

Virus

acellular infectious agents