All Cells
What organelle is known as the “powerhouse of the cell” and why?
The mitochondria; because they produce ATP, the cell’s main energy source.
What organelle controls the cell and contains the DNA?
The nucleus.
What is the main function of nucleic acids?
To store and transmit genetic information (DNA and RNA).
Name two organelles that are found in plant cells but not in animal cells.
Chloroplast and cell wall (also central vacuole is usually much larger in plants).
What are the main elements found in carbohydrates and lipids?
Carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O).
What is the main function of the cell membrane?
To control what enters and leaves the cell and maintain homeostasis.
What is the function of the mitochondria?
They produce energy (ATP) through cellular respiration.
Which macromolecule is the main source of short-term energy?
Carbohydrates.
What green pigment inside chloroplasts captures light energy?
Chlorophyll.
What is the function of enzymes, and which macromolecule are they made of?
Enzymes speed up chemical reactions; they are proteins.
What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotes lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; eukaryotes have both.
What organelle is found in plant cells but not animal cells and is used for photosynthesis?
Chloroplast.
Which macromolecule stores the most long-term energy?
Lipids (fats).
Which two organelles work together to make and transport proteins?
Ribosomes (make proteins) and the rough endoplasmic reticulum (transports proteins).
Give one example of a carbohydrate and its function.
Glucose – provides quick energy; Starch – stores energy in plants.
What is one thing all cells have, regardless of type?
Cell membrane, cytoplasm, DNA, and ribosomes.
Which organelle is responsible for making proteins?
Ribosomes.
What are the four main macromolecules found in living things?
Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.
Why do plant cells have a rigid cell wall and animals do not?
Plant cells need structural support to grow upright; animals have skeletons and other support systems.
Which macromolecule makes up most of the cell membrane and why?
Lipids (phospholipids); their hydrophobic and hydrophilic parts form a barrier that controls entry and exit of materials.
What organelle breaks down waste and old cell parts?
Lysosomes.
What does the Golgi apparatus do?
It modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and other molecules for transport.
What is the monomer (building block) of proteins?
Amino Acids
What structure helps a plant cell maintain its shape and stores water?
The central vacuole.
DNA and RNA are both nucleic acids. How are they similar and different?
Both store genetic information; DNA is double-stranded and stores long-term instructions, RNA is single-stranded and helps build proteins.