Biology - Topic 1 Cell biology and Organisation

What is the structure and function of the cell wall?

A structural layer that surrounds the cell membrane of some cells, providing support, protection, and shape.

What is the structure and function of the Plasma membrane?

• separates the interior of the cell from the outside environment.

• found in all cells.

• regulates the transport of materials entering and exiting the cell.

• has a fluid structure and is made up of a double layer of phospholipids, called a lipid bilayer.

What is the structure and function of a Mesosome?

• A complex membranous structure in a prokaryotic cell that's formed when the plasma membrane invaginates.

• They are similar to the mitochondrial cristae of eukaryotic cells.

• They have many functions including:

  Cell membrane synthesis, DNA replication, Protein synthesis, Chromosome distribution, Enzymatic activities, Secretion processes, and Bacterial respiration.

What is the structure and function of a Ribosome?

• Made up of 2 sub units: 1 large and 1 small.

• Responsible for protein synthesis

• Made up of RNA and are located in the cytoplasm or on the endoplasmic reticulum.

What is the structure and function of Circular DNA?

• found in bacteria, mitochondria, and chloroplasts.

• forms a closed loop structure with no free ends, providing stability and allowing for efficient replication and transcription.

What is the structure and function of the Cystoplasm?

• Provides a medium for chemical reactions and cell processes, and maintains cell shape and structure.

Name the 4 organelles that are found in some prokaryotic cells but not all

• Cilia (used for movement)

• Flagella (used for movement)

• Capsule or Slime Layer (an outer layer made of polysaccharides, which can be a capsule or a slime layer)

• Pili (These are short, hair-like appendages that help bacteria adhere to surfaces)

Describe the structure of a virus.

• a simple structure consisting of genetic material (DNA or RNA) encased in a protein shell called a capsid, and some viruses also have an outer envelope.

Eukaryotic cells all contain a nucleus. Describe the structure of a nucleus including the functions of each structure it contains.

Complete the Venn Diagram:

Give 3 differences better the structures of Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic cells.