RIBOSOMES
What are ribosomes?
Ribosomes are small cellular structures that serve as the site of protein synthesis. They are found in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
What is the function of mitochondria?
Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration.
What is the role of mRNA in protein synthesis?
mRNA carries the genetic instructions from DNA to the ribosome for protein synthesis.
How is ATP produced?
ATP is produced primarily in mitochondria through the process of cellular respiration.
What are the two subunits of a ribosome?
A ribosome consists of a large subunit and a small subunit.
Why are mitochondria known as the "power plants" of the cell?
Mitochondria are known as the "power plants" because they generate most of the cell's energy in the form of ATP.
What is translation?
Translation is the process in which ribosomes synthesize proteins by ordering amino acids based on the sequence of nucleotides in mRNA.
What is cellular respiration?
Cellular respiration is the metabolic process by which cells convert organic compounds into ATP, utilizing oxygen and producing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
How do ribosomes contribute to protein synthesis?
Ribosomes translate genetic instructions from mRNA to assemble amino acids into polypeptide chains, forming proteins.
What is ATP and why is it important?
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the energy currency of the cell, used for various cellular processes including movement and cell division.
How do ribosomes interact with the endoplasmic reticulum?
Ribosomes on the rough ER synthesize proteins that are inserted into the ER for further processing and transport.
What is the significance of cristae in mitochondria?
Cristae are the folded inner membranes of mitochondria that increase the surface area for ATP production.
What is a ribozyme?
A ribozyme is an RNA molecule that catalyzes chemical reactions, including the process of translation.
How does the number of mitochondria vary between cell types?
Cells that require more energy, like muscle cells, have more mitochondria compared to less active cells, like red blood cells, which have none.
What are polypeptide chains?
Polypeptide chains are long chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, forming proteins.
How do active cells differ in energy needs compared to inactive cells?
Active cells require more ATP and hence have more mitochondria, while inactive cells have lower energy needs and fewer mitochondria.
Why are ribosomes not considered organelles?
Ribosomes are not surrounded by a membrane, which distinguishes them from organelles.
What is the endosymbiotic theory related to mitochondria?
The endosymbiotic theory suggests that mitochondria originated from free-living prokaryotes that were engulfed by ancient eukaryotic cells, providing extra ATP to their host.
Why do muscle cells have more mitochondria than red blood cells?
Muscle cells require more energy for contraction and activity, thus they contain more mitochondria to meet their high energy demands.
What is the relationship between ribosomes and the rough ER?
Ribosomes attached to the rough ER synthesize proteins that are typically destined for secretion or incorporation into cell membranes.