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Anatomy & Physiology: The Living Units

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What is the basic unit of life?

    The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.

  • What are the main components of a cell?

    Cells typically consist of the plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.

  • What is the function of the plasma membrane?

    The plasma membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell and provides protection.

  • Define cytoplasm.

    The cytoplasm is the jelly-like fluid inside the cell where organelles are suspended and cellular processes occur.

  • What role does the nucleus play in a cell?

    The nucleus contains genetic material (DNA) and controls cell activities and reproduction.

  • What are organelles?

    Organelles are specialized structures within the cytoplasm that perform specific functions necessary for cell survival.

  • Name three important organelles and their functions.

    Mitochondria produce energy, ribosomes synthesize proteins, and the endoplasmic reticulum processes and transports molecules.

  • What is the function of mitochondria?

    Mitochondria generate ATP through cellular respiration, providing energy for the cell.

  • Describe the role of ribosomes.

    Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis by translating messenger RNA.

  • What is the difference between rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum?

    Rough ER has ribosomes and synthesizes proteins; smooth ER lacks ribosomes and synthesizes lipids and detoxifies substances.

  • What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?

    The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport or secretion.

  • What is the role of lysosomes?

    Lysosomes contain enzymes that digest and remove waste materials and cellular debris.

  • Define the cytoskeleton.

    The cytoskeleton is a network of protein fibers that provides cell shape, support, and facilitates movement.

  • What is the function of the cell membrane's selective permeability?

    Selective permeability allows the cell to regulate the entry and exit of substances, maintaining homeostasis.

  • Explain the concept of homeostasis in cells.

    Homeostasis is the cell's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

  • What is osmosis?

    Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane from low to high solute concentration.

  • Define diffusion in cellular context.

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

  • What is active transport?

    Active transport moves substances against their concentration gradient using energy (ATP).

  • What is the significance of the cell cycle?

    The cell cycle regulates cell growth and division, ensuring proper replication and function.

  • Name the phases of the cell cycle.

    The cell cycle includes interphase (growth and DNA replication) and mitosis (cell division).