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Light Microscope

An optical instrument that uses visible light to magnify images of small samples.

Magnification

The process of enlarging the apparent size of an object.

Light Microscope

An optical instrument that uses visible light to magnify images of small samples.

Magnification

The process of enlarging the apparent size of an object.

Resolution

The ability to distinguish two points as separate and distinct.

Cell Theory

States that all living things are composed of cells, and that cells are the basic unit of life.

Electron Microscope

A microscope that uses a beam of electrons to create an image of the specimen.

Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)

Provides three-dimensional images of surfaces by scanning the surface with a focused electron beam.

Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM)

Allows for the visualization of internal structures of thin specimens by transmitting electrons through the sample.

Phospholipid Bilayer

The structure of the plasma membrane composed of two layers of phospholipids.

Nonpolar Molecules

Molecules that can move freely across the membrane’s hydrophobic interior.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells without a nucleus, typically smaller and simpler, including bacteria.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, including plant and animal cells.

Nucleoid

The region within a prokaryotic cell where the DNA is located.

Flagella

Long, whip-like structures that aid in the movement of prokaryotic cells.

Organelle

Specialized structure within a cell that performs a specific function.

Chloroplast

The organelle in plant cells that conducts photosynthesis.

Mitochondrion

The organelle that produces energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.

Ribosomes

Molecular machines that synthesize proteins based on genetic instructions.

Endomembrane System

A system of membranes that includes the nuclear envelope, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and vesicles.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Lysosome

An organelle that contains enzymes to digest and recycle cellular waste.

Vacuoles

Storage organelles in cells that can hold various substances, including nutrients and waste.

Peroxisomes

Organelles that contain enzymes for oxidation reactions and detoxification.

Cytoskeleton

A network of fibers that provides structural support and facilitates cell movement.

Microtubules

Hollow tubes that provide rigidity and shape to the cell and are involved in transport and cell division.

Microfilaments

Thin filaments that support the cell’s shape and are involved in muscle contraction.

Intermediate Filaments

Filaments that provide mechanical support for the cell and are more stable than microfilaments and microtubules.

Extracellular Matrix

A network of proteins and carbohydrates outside the cell that provides structural and biochemical support.

Plasmodesmata

Channels between plant cells that allow for transport and communication.