Cell Structure and Function Overview

Cell

Smallest unit of life, basic building block.

Cell Theory

All living things are made of cells.

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells without a membrane-bound nucleus.

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells with a membrane-bound nucleus.

Plasma Membrane

Selective barrier surrounding the cell.

Cytosol

Semifluid substance within the cell membrane.

Ribosomes

Complexes that synthesize proteins from genes.

Chromosomes

Structures carrying genes in DNA form.

Binary Fission

A method of cell division in prokaryotes.

Mitosis

Cell division process in eukaryotic cells.

Cell Wall

Outer layer in plant cells for support.

Central Vacuole

Storage and waste breakdown in plant cells.

Chloroplasts

Organelles for photosynthesis in plant cells.

Fluid Mosaic Model

Describes membrane structure with embedded proteins.

Passive Transport

Movement of molecules without energy use.

Active Transport

Energy-requiring movement of molecules against gradients.

Diffusion

Movement of molecules from high to low concentration.

Osmosis

Diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

Tonicity

Solution's ability to affect cell water balance.

Isotonic

No net movement of water in cells.

Hypertonic

Cell loses water to its environment.

Hypotonic

Cell gains water faster than it loses.

Transport Proteins

Proteins aiding movement across the membrane.

Carrier Proteins

Proteins that change shape to transport substances.

Cellular Transport

Movement of substances across cell membranes.

Size & Scale

Comparison of sizes of various biological entities.