Cell Biology Basics
Master the fundamentals of cell biology with these flashcards covering cell theory, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell organelles, plasma membrane structure, passive and active transport, diffusion, osmosis, and the fluid mosaic model. Designed to help students review essential concepts through concise questions and answers for faster learning and exam preparation. The deck is based on the textbook's chapters on Cell Structure and Structure and Function of Plasma Membranes.
All Cards in This Deck
Question
What is the cell theory?
Answer
Cell theory states that all living organisms are composed of one or more cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Question
What are the two major types of cells?
Answer
Prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.
Question
Which cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles?
Answer
Prokaryotic cells.
Question
What structure contains the genetic material in eukaryotic cells?
Answer
The nucleus.
Question
What is the primary function of the plasma membrane?
Answer
It selectively regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.
Question
What is the plasma membrane mainly composed of?
Answer
A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.
Question
Which organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell?
Answer
The mitochondrion.
Question
What is the function of ribosomes?
Answer
Ribosomes synthesize proteins.
Question
What is the role of the rough endoplasmic reticulum?
Answer
It synthesizes and modifies proteins destined for membranes or secretion.
Question
What is the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
Answer
It synthesizes lipids, detoxifies harmful substances, and stores calcium ions.
Question
Which organelle modifies, sorts, and packages proteins?
Answer
The Golgi apparatus.
Question
What is the primary function of lysosomes?
Answer
Lysosomes digest and recycle cellular materials using hydrolytic enzymes.
Question
Which organelle contains chlorophyll and performs photosynthesis?
Answer
The chloroplast.
Question
What is the function of vacuoles in plant cells?
Answer
They store water, nutrients, wastes, and help maintain turgor pressure.
Question
What is the cytoskeleton?
Answer
A network of protein fibers that provides cell shape, support, movement, and intracellular transport.
Question
What is passive transport?
Answer
Movement of substances across the membrane without energy, down their concentration gradient.
Question
What is diffusion?
Answer
The movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
Question
What is osmosis?
Answer
The diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.
Question
What is active transport?
Answer
Movement of substances against their concentration gradient using cellular energy (ATP).
Question
What is the fluid mosaic model?
Answer
A model describing the plasma membrane as a flexible phospholipid bilayer with proteins embedded and moving within it.