Prokaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic Cells

Cell Theory

States that the cell is the fundamental unit of life.

Cytoplasm

A gel-like substance composed of water and dissolved chemicals needed for growth.

Plasma Membrane

Also known as the cell membrane, it encloses the cytoplasm and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells that lack a nucleus and have a singular, circular chromosome located in a nucleoid.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells that have a nucleus surrounded by a complex membrane and multiple, rod-shaped chromosomes.

Nucleoid

The region in prokaryotic cells where the DNA is concentrated and not bound by a nuclear membrane.

Plasmids

Small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecules found in some prokaryotic cells, often carrying advantageous genes.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines responsible for protein synthesis, differing in size between prokaryotic (70S) and eukaryotic (80S) cells.

Endospores

Dormant forms of bacteria that protect the genome in unfavorable conditions.

Osmosis

The diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane due to concentration differences.

Tonicity

The ability of a cell to withstand changes in osmotic pressure, determined by the presence of a cell wall.

Cell Wall

A protective layer found in most prokaryotes, providing structural support and protection against osmotic pressure.

Peptidoglycan

The main structural component of bacterial cell walls, composed of N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylmuramic acid.

Gram Staining

A laboratory technique used to differentiate between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria based on their cell wall structure.

Fimbriae

Short, bristle-like proteins that help bacteria adhere to surfaces and other cells.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures used by bacteria for movement in aqueous environments.