Cell Structure and Function Review

A set of flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to cell structure, biological molecules, enzymes, the cell cycle, genetics, and cancer.

Cell surface membrane

Selectively permeable membrane that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Cellulose cell wall

Protects the cell and gives the plant cell a fixed shape.

Cytoplasm

Jelly-like substance where most cell activities occur.

Nucleus

Controls cell activities and contains genetic information in the form of chromosomes.

Vacuole

Stores substances within the cell; large in plant cells, small and temporary in animal cells.

Chloroplast

Organelles that contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis.

Ribosome

Site of protein synthesis in the cell.

Mitochondria

Site of aerobic respiration and energy production.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

Network of membranes involved in protein and lipid synthesis.

Golgi body

Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up biochemical reactions.

Catalyst

Substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being permanently altered.

Polypeptide

Chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, which form proteins.

Gene

Unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and determines characteristic.

Allele

Different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus.

Haploid

A cell that contains one set of chromosomes (n).

Diploid

A cell that contains two sets of chromosomes (2n).

Homologous chromosomes

A pair of chromosomes, one from each parent, that are similar in shape and size.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic variation or disorders.

Carcinogen

Any substance that promotes cancer or increases the risk of cancer.

Chromosomal mutation

Alterations in chromosome number or structure leading to genetic disorders.

Photosynthesis

Process by which green plants use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Aerobic respiration

Process of producing cellular energy in the presence of oxygen.