Biomolecules, Enzymes, Water Properties & Cell Biology

Vocabulary flashcards covering biomolecule functions, enzyme terminology, cell structures, water properties, and foundational cell theory concepts.

Functions of Carbohydrates

Provide short-term energy storage and structural support (e.g., plant cell walls).

Functions of Proteins

Serve as enzymes, aid growth and development, provide structural components (skin, muscles), and act as signaling molecules such as hormones and antibodies.

Functions of Lipids

Store long-term energy, provide insulation, and form the core of cell membranes.

Functions of Nucleic Acids

Store and transmit genetic information.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up reactions by lowering activation energy.

Substrate

The specific molecule upon which an enzyme acts.

Product (enzyme reaction)

The molecule(s) produced after an enzyme converts its substrate.

Active Site

The region of an enzyme where the substrate binds.

Denature

Loss of an enzyme’s three-dimensional shape, causing loss of function; often due to changes in temperature or pH.

Activation Energy

The minimum amount of energy required to start a chemical reaction.

Catalyst

A substance that lowers activation energy and is not consumed during the reaction.

Cell

The basic unit of structure and function of all living things.

Prokaryote

A cell lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Eukaryote

A cell containing a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

Mitochondria

Organelle that produces ATP from sugars and lipids; the cell’s “powerhouse.”

Nucleus

Organelle that houses DNA and controls cellular processes.

Cytoskeleton

Network that gives a cell its shape and supports organelles.

Chloroplast

Organelle that converts light energy into sugars by photosynthesis.

Cytoplasm

Jelly-like material inside a cell that holds organelles in place.

Lysosome

Organelle containing digestive enzymes to break down waste and old organelles.

Vacuole

Storage organelle for water and dissolved substances; often large in plant cells.

Golgi Apparatus

Stack of membranes that modifies, packages, and ships proteins.

Cohesion

Attraction between water molecules due to hydrogen bonding.

Adhesion

Attraction between water molecules and other polar surfaces.

Surface Tension

Collective strength of hydrogen bonds at the surface of water.

Solvent (water)

Water’s ability to dissolve polar and ionic substances; ineffective with non-polar compounds.

Reactant

Starting substance(s) that interact in a chemical reaction.

Product (chemical reaction)

Substance(s) formed as a result of a chemical reaction.

Cell Features (universal)

All cells have DNA, cytoplasm, a membrane, organized interior, and the ability to make proteins, use energy, maintain homeostasis, and reproduce.

Endosymbiont Theory

Idea that early eukaryotes arose when a larger prokaryote engulfed smaller ones that became organelles.