2.1.1 Cell structure

Eukaryotic cell

A type of cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Ultrastructure

The detailed structure of cellular components like ribosomes, cytoskeleton, mitochondria, etc.

Prokaryotic cell

A type of cell without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

Endosymbiotic theory

Theory proposing that mitochondria and chloroplasts were once free-living prokaryotes engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein fibers (microtubules, microfilaments, intermediate fibers) that provides structural support and facilitates cell movement.

Mitochondrion

Organelle responsible for aerobic respiration and ATP production in both plant and animal cells.

Chloroplast

Organelle found in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis, containing chlorophyll and thylakoid membranes.

Organelle

Subcellular structure with specialized functions, such as the nucleus, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, etc.

Protein production and trafficking

The process involving different organelles and molecules in synthesizing and transporting proteins within a cell.

Light Microscopy

Technique using visible light to produce magnified images of cellular components.

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

Technique using electrons to visualize the internal structure of cells at high resolution.

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

Technique using electrons to create detailed 3D images of cell surfaces.

Cellulose

A structural carbohydrate found in plants.

Chitin

A structural polysaccharide found in fungi.

Slime capsule

A layer around the cell, outside the cell wall.

Flagellum

A whip-like structure for cell movement, with a different structure in prokaryotes compared to eukaryotes.

9+2 arrangement of microtubules

A specific arrangement of microtubules in flagella.

Cell surface membrane

Present in prokaryotes.

Reproduction

Can occur through binary fission and can be asexual or sexual.

Cytoskeleton

Present in prokaryotes, providing structural support.

Pili

Present in some prokaryotes but absent in others.