General Biology 1 - Lesson 3: Prokaryotic Cell vs Eukaryotic Cells (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic Cells notes.

Prokaryote

A simple, single-celled organism lacking a membrane-bound nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; DNA is typically circular and located in a nucleoid.

Eukaryote

An organism whose cells contain a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles; can be unicellular or multicellular.

Nucleoid

The irregular region in a prokaryotic cell where DNA is located; not surrounded by a membrane.

Nucleus

Membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that houses the DNA and coordinates transcription and replication.

Nucleolus

Region within the nucleus where ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis occurs.

Nuclear envelope

Double membrane surrounding the nucleus containing nuclear pores for transport.

Nuclear pore

Protein channels in the nuclear envelope that regulate transport between the nucleus and cytoplasm.

Nucleoplasm

The semi-fluid substance inside the nucleus, excluding the nucleolus.

Ribosome

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins; present in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Plasma membrane

Phospholipid bilayer that encloses the cell and regulates substance movement.

Cell wall

Rigid layer providing structure and protection; in bacteria made of peptidoglycan; in plants/fungi composed of other materials; absent in animal cells.

Capsule

Layer of polysaccharides outside the cell wall that helps attachment and protection.

Glycocalyx

A layer of polysaccharides surrounding some cells, aiding protection and recognition.

Pili

Rod-like projections that help in attachment and DNA transfer (conjugation) between bacteria.

Fimbriae

Short, hair-like structures aiding attachment to surfaces.

Flagellum

Tail-like organelle that enables movement.

Mesosome

Invaginations of the cell membrane thought to aid in metabolism and enzyme attachment.

Plasmid

Small circular DNA molecule that replicates independently of the bacterial chromosome.

Chromosome (prokaryotic)

One circular DNA molecule that carries most genetic information.

Cytoplasm

Semi-fluid interior of the cell where metabolism occurs and organelles reside.

Inclusion

Storage granules or deposits within the cytoplasm.

Endoplasmic reticulum (Rough)

Ribosome-studded network of membranes involved in protein synthesis and processing.

Endoplasmic reticulum (Smooth)

ER lacking ribosomes; involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.

Mitochondrion

Organelle that produces energy (ATP) for the cell; powerhouse.

Chloroplast

Organelle in plants and algae where photosynthesis occurs.

Golgi apparatus

Stack of membranes that processes, sorts, and ships proteins and lipids.

Lysosome

Organelle containing enzymes that digest waste and worn-out cell parts.

Vacuole

Membrane-bound vesicle for storage and water balance; large central vacuole in plants.

Peroxisome

Organelle that breaks down fatty acids and detoxifies hydrogen peroxide.

Cytoskeleton

Network of protein filaments (actin filaments, intermediate filaments, microtubules) that gives shape and aids movement.