Cell Biology and Ecology Review

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering cell biology, microscopy, cell transport, human organization, enzymes, and ecology based on the lecture notes.

What is the definition of cell biology?

Cell biology is the study of cells — the basic units of life.

What is the function of the mitochondria in a cell?

It is the site of aerobic respiration.

Which structures are found in plant cells but not animal cells?

Cell wall, chloroplasts, and a permanent vacuole.

What are the primary differences between eukaryotes and prokaryotes regarding the nucleus and DNA?

Eukaryotes have a nucleus and linear chromosomes, while prokaryotes lack a nucleus and have circular DNA free in the cytoplasm.

How is a sperm cell specialized for its function?

It has a tail for movement and contains many mitochondria.

What is cell differentiation?

The process by which cells become specialised.

How do light microscopes and electron microscopes differ in resolution?

Electron microscopes have a much higher resolution than light microscopes.

What is the formula for calculating magnification?

$$\text{Magnification} = \frac{\text{image size}}{\text{real size}}$$

At what temperature should microorganisms be incubated in schools for safety?

$$25\,^{\circ}\text{C}$$

What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis produces identical body cells, while meiosis produces gametes (sex cells).

How many chromosomes do humans have?

$46$ chromosomes ($23$ pairs).

What are the three stages of the cell cycle?

1. Cell grows and DNA replicates. 2. Mitosis occurs. 3. Cell divides.

What are the three types of stem cells mentioned in the text?

Embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells (bone marrow), and plant meristem cells.

What is diffusion?

The movement of particles from high concentration to low concentration as a passive process.

How is osmosis defined?

The diffusion of water through a partially permeable membrane from a dilute to a concentrated solution.

What is active transport?

The movement of substances from a low concentration to a high concentration using energy from respiration.

What are the four levels of organization in multicellular organisms?

1. Cells, 2. Tissues, 3. Organs, 4. Organ systems.

What are the three types of animal tissues highlighted?

Muscle tissue, glandular tissue, and epithelial tissue.

What is the function of the human digestive system?

It breaks large food molecules into small soluble molecules for absorption.

What are the three main types of digestive enzymes and what do they break down?

Carbohydrases break carbohydrates into sugars; proteases break proteins into amino acids; lipases break lipids into fatty acids and glycerol.

What three factors affect enzyme activity?

Temperature, pH, and concentration.

What are the three types of adaptations in ecology?

Structural (e.g., thick fur), Behavioural (e.g., migration), and Functional (e.g., concentrated urine).

What do organisms compete for in a habitat?

Food, water, territory, light, and mates.

List four examples of abiotic factors.

Temperature, light intensity, water availability, and pH.

List four examples of biotic factors.

Predators, disease, competition, and food availability.