Biology Super In-Depth Study Guide: Chapters 8–10

A set of vocabulary flashcards highlighting key terms and definitions related to chapters 8-10 of the Biology study guide, covering membrane structure and function, cell structure, and the cytoskeleton.

Fluid Mosaic Model

A description of the plasma membrane that emphasizes the dynamic arrangement of lipids and proteins, allowing for flexibility and selective permeability.

Amphipathic

A property of molecules, such as phospholipids, that have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts.

Cholesterol

A lipid molecule interspersed among phospholipids in the plasma membrane that helps to stabilize membrane fluidity under varying temperature conditions.

Passive Transport

The movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, including processes such as simple diffusion and facilitated diffusion.

Active Transport

The movement of molecules across a cell membrane using energy (ATP), often against their concentration gradient, as seen in the sodium-potassium pump.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A mechanism that actively transports sodium out of cells and potassium into cells, vital for maintaining cell membrane potential and voltage.

Prokaryotic Cells

Simple, generally smaller cells that lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, with circular DNA located in a nucleoid region.

Eukaryotic Cells

Complex cells that have a true nucleus, linear DNA, and various specialized organelles encapsulated by membranes.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

A type of endoplasmic reticulum that has ribosomes on its surface and is involved in the synthesis and modification of proteins.

Lysosomes

Organelles containing hydrolytic enzymes used for breaking down macromolecules and recycling cellular components.

Endosymbiotic Theory

The theory proposing that mitochondria and chloroplasts originated from free-living prokaryotes that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers composed of microtubules, actin filaments, and intermediate filaments that provide mechanical support, organization, and traction for movement within the cell.

Dynein Motors

Motor proteins that generate movement in cilia and flagella by sliding microtubule doublets past one another to create a wave-like motion.

Bulk Transport

The movement of large substances into or out of a cell, including exocytosis and endocytosis.

Glycoproteins

Proteins that have carbohydrate chains attached, playing roles in cell recognition and communication on the extracellular surface.