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Cell vocab
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Cell | Cells are the basic building blocks of all living organisms. They are the smallest units of life and are responsible for carrying out all the functions necessary for an organism to survive and function properly. |
| Osmosis | Osmosis is the process of water moving across a semipermeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration. |
| Cell Theory | Cell Theory, also known as the cell doctrine, is a fundamental concept in biology that states that all living organisms are composed of cells, and that cells are the basic structural and functional units of life. |
| Cell Wall | The cell wall is a rigid structure that surrounds plant cells and provides support and protection. |
| Cell Membrane | The cell membrane is a crucial component of all cells. It acts as a barrier, separating the interior of the cell from the external environment. |
| Nucleus | The nucleus is a highly structured organelle found in eukaryotic cells. It contains the genetic material of the cell, including DNA, and is involved in various cellular processes such as gene expression, DNA replication, and RNA processing. |
| Organelle | Organelles are specialized structures within cells that perform specific functions. |
| Ribosome | Ribosomes are ancient molecular machines found in all living organisms that play a crucial role in protein synthesis. |
| Nucleic Acid | Nucleic acids are natural biopolymers that store and transmit genetic information in living organisms. |
| Selectively Permeable | Selective permeability refers to the property of a membrane or material to allow the passage of certain substances while restricting the passage of others. |
| Cytoplasm | The cytoplasm is a gel-like environment inside cells that is composed of various molecules, organelles, and cytoskeletal networks. |
| Mitochondria | Mitochondria are organelles found in cells that play a crucial role in various aspects of cellular function. |
| Endoplasmic Reticulum | The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a vital organelle in cells responsible for various functions. |
| Golgi Apparatus | The Golgi apparatus is a vital organelle in cells that is responsible for processing, sorting, and trafficking newly synthesized proteins and lipids. |
| Chloroplast | Chloroplasts are organelles found in plant cells that are responsible for photosynthesis. |
| Lysosome | Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles within cells that are involved in the degradation and recycling of cellular waste. |
| DNA | DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is a molecule that contains the genetic instructions for life. It is made up of units called nucleotides, which consist of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogen base |
| Passive Transport | Passive transport refers to the movement of molecules or particles across a cell membrane without the need for energy expenditure by the cell. |
| Active Transport | Active transport is a process by which molecules are transported across a biological membrane against a concentration or electrochemical gradient, requiring energy. |
| Diffusion | Diffusion is the process by which molecules or particles spread out from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. |
| Tissue | Tissue is a term used to describe a group of cells that work together to perform a specific function in the body. |
| Organ | The definition of an organ is a bit vague, but it is generally understood as a group of tissues that work together to perform a specific function in the body. |
| Organ System | The human body is made up of multiple organ systems that work together to maintain overall health and function. |
| Endocytosis | Endocytosis is a fundamental process in which cells internalize molecules and macromolecules from the extracellular environment. |
| Exocytosis | Endocytosis is a fundamental process in which cells internalize molecules and macromolecules from the extracellular environment. |