Summary
Cells are the basic units of life, performing essential functions and containing various organelles. Cell — the smallest unit of living organisms. Example: Red blood cells carry oxygen. Prokaryote — a cell without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Example: Bacteria. Eukaryote — a cell with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Example: Plant and animal cells. Cell wall — a rigid layer in plant cells providing support and protection. Example: Made of cellulose. Chloroplast — organelle in plant cells containing chlorophyll for photosynthesis. Example: Traps light energy. Mitochondrion — organelle for respiration, producing energy. Example: Found in active cells like muscle cells. Vacuole — a storage organelle in cells, larger in plant cells. Example: Stores water and nutrients. Nucleus — controls cell activities and contains DNA. Example: Contains chromosomes. Ribosome — site of protein synthesis. Example: Found in cytoplasm. Endoplasmic Reticulum — a transport system within the cell. Example: Rough ER has ribosomes, smooth ER does not. Golgi Body — modifies and packages proteins for secretion. Example: Located near the nucleus.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Cell: Basic unit of life
- Prokaryote: Cell without a nucleus
- Eukaryote: Cell with a nucleus
- Organelle: Specialized structure within a cell
Common Confusions
- Difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
- Function of plant cell wall vs. cell membrane
Typical Exam Questions
- What is the function of the mitochondrion? Answer: Respiration and energy production
- How do plant and animal cells differ? Answer: Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large central vacuole; animal cells do not.
- What is the role of the nucleus? Answer: Controls cell activities and contains DNA
What Examiners Usually Test
- Differences between plant and animal cells
- Functions of various organelles
- Understanding of cell specialization and organization
