Cell Biology 1-3

Hypothesis

A tentative explanation that can be tested and is falsifiable.

Cell theory

All living organisms are composed of cells; the cell is the basic unit of life; cells arise by the division of pre-existing cells.

Transmission electron microscope (TEM)

A microscope that passes an electron beam through very thin sections stained with metal atoms, primarily used to study the internal structure of cells.

Scanning electron microscope (SEM)

A microscope that uses an electron beam to scan the surface of a sample coated with metal atoms to study topography.

Polymers

A long chain molecule consisting of repeating monomers connected by covalent bonds.

Protein

A long chain polymer that has been folded into a specific shape for a certain function.

Polypeptide

A linear long chain molecule made up of amino acids with no specific function.

Protein vs Polypeptide

Protein = folded structure into specific shape so functional; Polypeptide = unfolded and no specific function.

Polysaccharides

A polymer of many monosaccharides formed by dehydration reactions; Complex carbohydrates.

Eukaryotic cells size

Eukaryotic cells (animals) range from 10-100µm.

Prokaryotic cells size

Prokaryotic (bacterial) cells range from 1-100µm.

Controlled experiment

An experiment that tests experimental and controlled groups in parallel.

Dehydration reaction

The removal of water so that two monomers may join.

Micro (µ)

10^-6.

How do scientific theories and scientific hypotheses differ from each other?

Theories are supported by a much greater body of evidence than hypotheses.

Nano (n)

10^-9.

What is the basic unit of a carbohydrate?

A monosaccharide.

What is tested directly during an experiment?

A prediction.