Cell Structure
What is the function of the nucleus?
The nucleus stores genetic material (DNA) and coordinates cell activities such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
What is homeostasis?
Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain stable, constant conditions.
What is the function of lysosomes?
Lysosomes contain enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris.
Define diffusion.
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
What are signal transduction pathways?
Signal transduction pathways are processes by which cells respond to external signals through a series of molecular events.
What organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell?
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they produce ATP through cellular respiration.
Name one way cells maintain homeostasis.
Cells maintain homeostasis through mechanisms like osmoregulation, thermoregulation, and pH balance.
Name the organelle responsible for photosynthesis.
Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells.
What is osmosis?
Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.
How do cells communicate chemically?
Cells communicate chemically through signaling molecules, such as hormones and neurotransmitters, that bind to receptors on target cells.
Describe the role of the endoplasmic reticulum.
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) synthesizes proteins and lipids; the rough ER has ribosomes for protein synthesis, while the smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis.
How do enzymes assist in maintaining homeostasis?
Enzymes speed up chemical reactions, helping to regulate metabolic processes essential for maintaining homeostasis.
What is the role of mitochondria in energy production?
Mitochondria convert glucose and oxygen into ATP through cellular respiration, providing energy for the cell.
Describe active transport.
Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP).
What role do hormones play in cellular communication?
Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to target cells, regulating physiological processes.
What is the primary function of ribosomes?
Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis by translating mRNA into polypeptide chains.
What role do cell membranes play in homeostasis?
Cell membranes control the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining the internal environment's balance.
Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells regarding organelles.
Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells possess organelles like the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum.
How do transport proteins function?
Transport proteins facilitate the movement of ions and molecules across the cell membrane, either passively or actively.
Explain how neurotransmitters affect homeostasis.
Neurotransmitters transmit signals across synapses, influencing various functions in the nervous system and maintaining homeostasis.
Explain the role of the Golgi apparatus.
The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.
Describe feedback mechanisms in homeostasis.
Feedback mechanisms, such as negative and positive feedback, regulate physiological processes to maintain stability, such as temperature and blood sugar levels.
How do the structures of plant and animal cells differ?
Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and large central vacuoles, while animal cells do not have these structures.
Explain the significance of the sodium-potassium pump.
The sodium-potassium pump maintains the concentration gradients of sodium and potassium ions across the cell membrane, which are essential for nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.
What is the impact of cell communication on tissue homeostasis?
Effective cell communication ensures coordination and regulation of cellular activities, essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and overall organism health.