Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes Flashcards

Flashcards covering the key differences and characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, as well as levels of structural organization.

Levels of Organization

Atoms -> Molecules -> Organelles -> Cells -> Tissues -> Organs -> Organ Systems -> Organism

Chemical Level

The most basic level of structural organization, involving atoms combining to form molecules.

Cell Level

Molecules form organelles, such as the nucleus and mitochondria, which make up cells (basic unit of life).

Tissue Level

Similar cells and surrounding materials that perform a specific function.

Organ Level

Different tissues combine to form organs, such as the urinary bladder.

Organ System Level

Organs working together to perform specific functions.

Organism Level

All organ systems working together to create a complete organism.

Unicellular Organism

An organism made of only one cell.

Multicellular Organism

An organism made of more than one cell.

Prokaryotic Cell

A cell that does not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryotic Cell

A cell that contains a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

Amoeba

A unicellular organism of the protist kingdom which eats using phagocytosis.

Prokaryote Size

0.1-5.0 microns

Phospholipid Bilayer

The main component of the plasma membrane/cell membrane

Cell Wall (Prokaryotes)

Composed of peptidoglycan, providing structure and support.

Gram Stain

Differential stain used to classify bacteria based on cell wall composition.

Glycocalyx

Gel-like structure on the external surface of a prokaryotic cell, involved in protection and attachment; can be a capsule or slime layer.

Flagella

Long filamentous appendages used for motility in prokaryotic cells.

Fimbriae

Short, numerous appendages on prokaryotic cells that enable adherence to surfaces.

Pili

Appendages that join bacteria cells in preparation for the transfer of DNA.

Cytoplasm

The substance inside the cytoplasmic membrane that is about 80% water.

Nucleoid

The central region in a prokaryotic cell where the chromosome is located.

Plasmids

Small circular DNA molecules.

Ribosomes

Site of protein synthesis.

Inclusions

Structures in prokaryotic cells used for storing excess nutrients.

Eukaryotic Genome Organization

Complex genome organization

Eukaryotic Regulatory DNA

Used to control gene expression.

Prokaryotic Reproduction

Binary Fission

Eukaryotic Reproduction

Mitosis

Prokaryotic Ribosomes

70S

Eukaryotic Ribosomes

80S