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Anatomy & Physiology Chapter 3 Key Concepts

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What are intercellular junctions?

    Intercellular junctions are specialized connections between adjacent cells that allow communication and adhesion.

  • Name the main types of intercellular junctions.

    Tight junctions, desmosomes, and gap junctions.

  • What is the primary function of tight junctions?

    Tight junctions create a seal that prevents substances from passing between cells.

  • What role do desmosomes play in tissues?

    Desmosomes provide strong adhesion between cells, resisting mechanical stress.

  • What is the function of gap junctions?

    Gap junctions allow direct communication by permitting ions and small molecules to pass between cells.

  • Define diffusion in cellular transport.

    Diffusion is the passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to lower concentration.

  • What factors affect the rate of diffusion?

    Concentration gradient, temperature, molecule size, and membrane permeability.

  • What is the sodium-potassium pump?

    An active transport protein that moves 3 sodium ions out and 2 potassium ions into the cell using ATP.

  • Why is the sodium-potassium pump important?

    It maintains cell membrane potential and regulates cell volume.

  • What are lysosomes?

    Lysosomes are organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste and cellular debris.

  • What is the function of peroxisomes?

    Peroxisomes detoxify harmful substances and break down fatty acids using oxidative enzymes.

  • How do lysosomes differ from peroxisomes?

    Lysosomes digest cellular waste; peroxisomes detoxify chemicals and metabolize lipids.

  • What are the phases of the cell cycle?

    Interphase (G1, S, G2) and mitotic phase (mitosis and cytokinesis).

  • What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

    DNA replication occurs, doubling the genetic material.

  • What is the purpose of the G1 phase?

    Cell growth and preparation for DNA synthesis.

  • Describe the G2 phase.

    Final preparation for mitosis, including protein synthesis and organelle replication.

  • What occurs during mitosis?

    Division of the nucleus into two genetically identical daughter nuclei.

  • What is cytokinesis?

    The division of the cytoplasm, resulting in two separate daughter cells.

  • How does active transport differ from diffusion?

    Active transport requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient; diffusion is passive.

  • Give an example of a molecule transported by diffusion.

    Oxygen and carbon dioxide freely diffuse across cell membranes.