Free flashcard deck
Cell bio flashcards
99 cards, Medium, made and shared by a student on FORKSAI.
FORKSAI brings each card back with spaced repetition, right before you would forget it. Free to start, no card needed.
All 99 cards
Card 1
What is the primary difference in the cell structure observed by Robert Hooke in cork compared to a living plant cell?
Robert Hooke observed only the tough cell walls of dead plant cells in cork, noting that the cell itself had disappeared. In a living plant cell, one would observe the intact cell with its internal constituents contained within the cell wall.
Card 2
Define the term 'cell' as it was originally coined by Robert Hooke.
The term 'cell' was coined by Robert Hooke in 1665 to describe the small, box-like compartments he observed in a slice of cork bark. He likened them to the small rooms or 'cells' in a monastery.
Card 3
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek is commonly known by what title, reflecting his significant contributions to early cell biology?
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek is commonly known as the 'Father of Microbiology'. His pioneering work with microscopes allowed him to be the first to observe and describe single-celled organisms, which he referred to as 'animalcules'.
Card 4
According to the provided notes, what is the estimated total number of human cells in a 70 kg 'reference man'?
The 2016 study by Sender, Fuchs, and Milo revised the estimate to approximately 30 trillion human cells in a 70 kg 'reference man'.
Card 5
How does the estimated number of bacterial cells in the human body compare to the number of human cells, according to the 2016 study mentioned?
The 2016 study estimates approximately 38 trillion bacterial cells, mainly in the gut, compared to about 30 trillion human cells. This suggests a ratio closer to 1:1, with microbial cells slightly outnumbering human cells.
Card 6
An individual is taking a course of antibiotics. How might this affect the ratio of bacterial to human cells in their body, and why?
Antibiotic use can significantly alter the ratio of bacterial to human cells by reducing the number of microbial cells, particularly in the gut. This is because antibiotics are designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, thus decreasing the overall bacterial population.
Card 7
What is the typical size range in diameter for human cells?
The typical size range for human cells is 10 - 120 μm in diameter. This range accounts for the diversity in size among the 210 different cell types found in the human body.
Card 8
Which of the following historical figures is credited with coining the term 'cell'?
A) Antonie van Leeuwenhoek B) Robert Hooke C) Stephen Fordham D) Bianconi et al. The correct option is B. Robert Hooke coined the term 'cell' in 1665 after observing the structure of cork bark.
Card 9
Where are most microbial cells in the human body primarily located?
Most microbial cells in the human body are primarily located in the colon. This area provides a suitable environment for a large and diverse population of bacteria.
Card 10
What is one key characteristic of plant cells that allowed Robert Hooke to observe their structure even after the cell itself had disappeared?
A key characteristic of plant cells is their tough cell wall. This rigid outer layer persists even after the living contents of the cell have decayed, allowing its structure to be observed by Hooke in cork.
Card 11
Why is it important for students to attend the specific practical session they have been timetabled for?
It is important for students to attend their timetabled practical session because the practicals are repeated multiple times to accommodate all students, requiring monumental effort and organization. Attending the assigned session helps maintain this organization and ensures resources are available for everyone.
Card 12
What is the purpose of the optional surgery sessions mentioned in the teaching schedule?
The optional surgery sessions provide an opportunity for students to chat through coursework or lecture content. This offers additional support and clarification outside of regular lectures and labs.
Card 13
A student is preparing for the MCQ exam. How many questions should they expect, and what is the allotted time?
The MCQ exam consists of 30 questions and students are allotted 1 hour to complete it, with extra time available for those who qualify.
Card 14
What percentage of the unit mark is the experimental report worth, and when is it due?
The experimental report is worth 70% of the unit mark and is due on the 19th of March at 12:00 pm. It requires reporting the results of one of the experiments conducted in the unit.
Card 15
Which of the following is NOT a 'MUST' learning outcome for this unit?
A) Define cell theory B) Understand differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells C) Explore challenges associated with defining protist cells D) Name major cell organelles and their functions The correct option is C. 'Explore the challenges associated with defining protist cells' is listed under 'COULD' learning outcomes, not 'MUST'.
Card 16
A researcher is studying a novel organism and needs to differentiate between its cell type and a typical human cell. Based on the learning outcomes, what fundamental distinction should they focus on?
Based on the learning outcomes, the researcher should focus on understanding the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. This fundamental distinction covers major structural and functional variations that would help classify the novel organism's cell type relative to human cells, which are eukaryotic.
Card 17
What is the word count requirement for the experimental report, excluding references, tables, and figures?
The experimental report has a word count requirement of 2,000 words, with a +/- 10% allowance. This count does not include references, tables, and figures.
Card 18
During which month is the MCQ exam scheduled to take place?
The MCQ exam is scheduled to take place during the May exam period. This is separate from the experimental report deadline in March.
Card 19
Where can students find the assignment briefs for their assessments?
Students can find the assignment briefs for their assessments on Brightspace. This platform serves as a central location for course materials and information.
Card 20
What is a 'SHOULD' learning outcome related to cell types?
A 'SHOULD' learning outcome is to compare the differences between the major cell types. This goes beyond simply defining or naming, requiring a comparative understanding.
Card 21
A student needs to understand the basic components and functions of a cell. Which specific learning outcome directly addresses this need?
The learning outcome that directly addresses this need is 'Name the major cell organelles and their functions'. This outcome ensures students can identify the key structures within a cell and describe what they do.
Card 22
According to the teaching schedule, which week focuses on 'Cell signalling and communication'?
Lecture 12, which covers 'Cell signalling and communication', is scheduled for Week 37. This week also includes Lab 6 on Genotoxicity and Lecture 11 on DNA damage and repair.
Card 23
If a student misses a lecture on 'Photosynthesis', which week should they refer to in the teaching schedule to catch up on the topic?
If a student misses a lecture on 'Photosynthesis', they should refer to Week 35. Lecture 7 in Week 35 is specifically dedicated to Photosynthesis, alongside Lecture 8 on Cellular Respiration and Lab 4 on Psychoactive substances.
Card 24
Which of the following topics is covered in Week 36?
A) Enzymes B) DNA- structure and function C) Cell signalling and communication D) Cancer The correct option is B. Week 36 includes Lab 5: Cell fractionation, Lecture 9: DNA- structure and function, and Lecture 10: DNA- gene and genome.
Card 25
What is the main topic covered in Lecture 17?
Lecture 17 is dedicated to the topic of 'Cancer'. This lecture is scheduled in Week 43, following a break in sessions.
Card 26
A scientist observes a newly discovered single-celled organism under a microscope. It has a distinct nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts. Based on this observation, what type of cell is it, and what broader category of life does it likely belong to?
This organism is a eukaryotic cell because it possesses a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts. It likely belongs to the category of plants or protists, as the presence of chloroplasts indicates it performs photosynthesis.
Card 27
DEFINITION: Distinguish between the 'cytosol' and the 'cytoplasm' within a cell.
The cytoplasm refers to all the material within a cell, enclosed by the plasma membrane, excluding the nucleus. The cytosol, on the other hand, is specifically the liquid component of the cytoplasm, in which organelles and the cytoskeleton are suspended.
Card 28
How did Louis Pasteur's experiment with boiled meat broth and sealed vessels challenge the prevailing belief in the spontaneous formation of cells?
Pasteur's experiment demonstrated that life did not spontaneously generate from non-living matter. By showing that microbial growth only occurred in unsealed vessels exposed to air (and thus microbes), he proved that living cells arise only from pre-existing living cells, disproving spontaneous generation.
Card 29
Which of the following is NOT considered a common feature found in ALL cells? A) Plasma membrane B) Cytoplasm C) Cell wall D) DNA
C) Cell wall. While a cell wall provides structure to some cells (like plant and prokaryotic cells), it is not present in all cells, such as animal cells.
Card 30
DEFINITION: Define the term 'nucleoid region' as it applies to prokaryotic cells.
The nucleoid region is the area within a prokaryotic cell where the genomic DNA is located. Unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotes lack a membrane-bound nucleus, so their genetic material is free within this specific region of the cytoplasm.
Card 31
A pharmaceutical company is developing a new antibiotic that targets peptidoglycan. Which type of organism would this antibiotic be most effective against, and why?
This antibiotic would be most effective against prokaryotic cells, specifically bacteria. Prokaryotic cells, but not eukaryotic cells, possess a peptidoglycan cell wall, which is essential for their structural integrity. Targeting this component would disrupt their cell wall formation and lead to their demise.
Card 32
Why is Robert Hooke credited with coining the term 'cell' despite only observing the remnants of plant cells?
Hooke observed the honeycomb-like structures in cork bark, which reminded him of the small rooms or 'cells' in a monastery. Although he was seeing only the cell walls of dead plant cells, his term became universally adopted due to its descriptive nature and the subsequent understanding of the fundamental unit of life.
Card 33
According to the revised 2016 study by Sender, Fuchs, and Milo, what is the approximate ratio of bacterial cells to human cells in the 70 kg 'reference man'? A) 10:1 B) 1:10 C) 1:1 D) 2:1
C) 1:1. The study revised the previously widely believed 10:1 ratio, suggesting that microbial cells, mainly in the gut, are closer to 38 trillion compared to human cells at 30 trillion, making the ratio approximately 1:1.
Card 34
DEFINITION: What are 'plasmids' in the context of prokaryotic cells?
Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA found in prokaryotic cells, separate from the main genomic DNA in the nucleoid region. They often carry genes that provide advantages, such as antibiotic resistance.
Card 35
A researcher is studying a microscopic organism that can adhere to various surfaces using hair-like projections. This organism also forms protective structures to survive harsh conditions. What specific features of prokaryotic cells is the researcher likely observing?
The researcher is likely observing pili, which are hair-like projections that enable prokaryotic cells to adhere to surfaces. Additionally, the formation of protective structures in adverse conditions points to the presence of endospores, a key feature of some prokaryotes that protects their DNA.
Card 36
How did Antonie van Leeuwenhoek's improvements to the microscope technology significantly advance the field of cell biology?
Van Leeuwenhoek's enhanced microscopes provided much greater magnification and clarity, allowing him to observe and describe previously unseen microscopic life. This led to the discovery of bacteria, protists, blood cells, and sperm cells, earning him the title 'Father of Microbiology' and expanding the understanding of cellular diversity.
Card 37
Which of the following statements is NOT a principle of modern cell theory? A) All living matter is composed of cells. B) All cells arise spontaneously from non-living matter. C) Metabolic reactions of an organism take place in cells. D) Cells contain the hereditary information passed to daughter cells.
B) All cells arise spontaneously from non-living matter. This statement contradicts a core principle of modern cell theory, which states that all cells arise from other cells, a concept disproven by Louis Pasteur.
Card 38
DEFINITION: What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?
Ribosomes are essential cellular components responsible for protein synthesis. They read RNA sequences and translate them into chains of amino acids, which then fold into functional proteins.
Card 39
Imagine you are examining a sample from a pond under a microscope. You observe a single-celled organism with no fixed body shape and no cell wall. What type of organism is it most likely, and what larger group does it belong to?
Given its single-celled nature, lack of a fixed body shape, and absence of a cell wall, this organism is most likely an Amoeba. Amoebas are a type of protist, which are eukaryotic organisms.
Card 40
Explain the significance of Rudolf Virchow's contribution to modern cell theory.
Rudolf Virchow's observation of cells dividing led to his realization that 'cells come from cells.' This critical insight established the principle that all cells arise from pre-existing cells, a fundamental tenet that completed the modern cell theory alongside Schwann and Schleiden's work.
Card 41
Which pair of scientists is credited with recognizing the cell as the fundamental unit of life in the 1830s? A) Robert Hooke and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek B) Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden C) Rudolf Virchow and Louis Pasteur D) Bianconi et al. and Sender, Fuchs, and Milo
B) Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden. In the 1830s, Schwann and Schleiden were instrumental in recognizing the cell as the fundamental unit of life, a key step in developing modern cell theory.
Card 42
DEFINITION: What is the 'plasma membrane' and what is its universal presence across cell types?
The plasma membrane is the outer boundary that surrounds every cell. It acts as a selective barrier, controlling the passage of substances into and out of the cell, and is a common feature found in all known cell types, whether prokaryotic or eukaryotic.
Card 43
A biologist discovers a new microorganism that lacks a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Its genetic material is found in a nucleoid region, and it has a peptidoglycan cell wall. How would this organism be classified?
This microorganism would be classified as a prokaryotic cell. Its defining features, such as the absence of a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, genomic DNA in a nucleoid region, and a peptidoglycan cell wall, are characteristic of prokaryotes like bacteria.
Card 44
Why is it important that cells contain the hereditary information of which they are a part, and how is this information passed on?
It is crucial because hereditary information (DNA) contains all the instructions for a cell's structure, function, and development. This information is passed from parent to daughter cells during cell division, ensuring the continuity of life and the faithful transmission of traits across generations.
Card 45
Which of the following cell types typically has a regular shape and a cell wall? A) Human kidney cells B) Amoeba C) Moss leaf cells D) Foraminifer
C) Moss leaf cells. Plant cells, such as moss leaf cells, are characterized by having a tough cell wall which gives them a regular, fixed shape.
Card 46
DEFINITION: What is the function of the cytoskeleton within the cytoplasm?
The cytoskeleton is a network of protein filaments within the cytoplasm. Its primary function is to provide structural support to the cell, maintain its shape, and facilitate cell movement and the transport of organelles within the cell.
Card 47
A medical student is learning about the human body. They are told that the body contains approximately 30 trillion human cells. What is the approximate number of bacterial cells they would expect to find, mainly in the gut, based on the 2016 revised estimates?
Based on the 2016 revised estimates by Sender, Fuchs, and Milo, the student would expect to find approximately 38 trillion bacterial cells. This brings the ratio of bacterial to human cells closer to 1:1, with microbial cells slightly outnumbering human cells.
Card 48
How does the presence or absence of a nucleus differentiate eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
The presence of a distinct, membrane-bound nucleus is the defining characteristic of eukaryotic cells ('eu' meaning true, 'karyon' meaning nucleus), where the genomic DNA is housed. Prokaryotic cells ('pro' meaning before, 'karyon' meaning nucleus) lack such a nucleus, with their genomic DNA free in the nucleoid region, making them structurally simpler.
Card 49
Which of the following factors can cause the ratio of bacterial to human cells in the body to vary? A) Genetic predisposition B) Diet C) Geographic location D) Time of day
B) Diet. The source notes state that the actual ratio of bacterial to human cells can vary depending on factors like diet, age, health, and antibiotic use.
Card 50
DEFINITION: What is an 'endospore' in the context of prokaryotic cells, and what is its purpose?
An endospore is a dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structure produced by some prokaryotic cells, primarily bacteria. Its purpose is to protect the cell's DNA and essential components in adverse environmental conditions, allowing the cell to survive until more favorable conditions return.
Card 51
How does the presence or absence of a cell wall influence the typical shape of a cell, using examples from the source notes?
Cells with a cell wall, such as moss leaf cells (plant cells), typically have a regular shape because the rigid cell wall provides structural support. In contrast, cells lacking a cell wall, like human kidney cells (animal cells) or Amoeba (protist), often have an irregular or unfixed body shape as they lack this external structural constraint.
Card 52
DEFINITION: Distinguish between the primary function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and the smooth endoplasmic reticulum in eukaryotic cells.
The rough endoplasmic reticulum is primarily involved in protein metabolism, specifically the synthesis, folding, modification, and transport of proteins, due to its ribosomes. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum, on the other hand, is crucial for carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and detoxification processes, lacking ribosomes on its surface.
Card 53
A new antibiotic is being developed that targets the peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cells. Explain why this antibiotic would be effective against prokaryotic cells but not eukaryotic cells.
This antibiotic would be effective against prokaryotic cells because they possess a peptidoglycan cell wall, which is a key structural component. Eukaryotic cells, such as animal cells, lack a peptidoglycan cell wall entirely, or in the case of plant cells, have a cell wall made of cellulose, making them unaffected by an antibiotic targeting peptidoglycan.
Card 54
Which of the following bacterial shapes is associated with the disease cholera?
C) Vibrio. The source notes explicitly state that Vibrio bacteria, which are comma-shaped, curved rods, cause cholera.
Card 55
Explain the functional significance of membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells compared to the organization of prokaryotic cells.
Membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells allow for compartmentalization, meaning different cellular processes can occur in separate, distinct environments. This increases efficiency and allows for more complex functions. Prokaryotic cells lack these organelles, with their genomic DNA free in the nucleoid region and ribosomes not membrane-bound, leading to a simpler internal organization.
Card 56
DEFINITION: Define 'nucleoid region' and 'plasmids' in the context of prokaryotic cells.
The nucleoid region in prokaryotic cells is where the genomic DNA is located, free within the cytoplasm without being enclosed by a membrane. Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA found in prokaryotic cells, separate from the main genomic DNA, often carrying genes that provide advantages like antibiotic resistance.
Card 57
A microbiologist observes a single-celled organism under a microscope. It is ten times larger than typical bacteria, has a distinct nucleus, and contains chloroplasts. What type of cell is this most likely to be, and why?
This organism is most likely a plant cell or a photosynthetic protist. The presence of a distinct nucleus and chloroplasts (for photosynthesis) are key features of eukaryotic cells, and the larger size is characteristic of eukaryotes compared to prokaryotes. While protists are diverse, some are photosynthetic and unicellular, fitting the description, but the presence of chloroplasts strongly points to a plant-like eukaryotic cell.
Card 58
Which of the following is NOT a common characteristic shared between animal and plant cells?
D) Presence of a cell wall. While plant cells have a cell wall made of cellulose, animal cells explicitly lack a cell wall according to the source notes.
Card 59
How do the flagella of prokaryotic cells differ fundamentally in structure and motion from the flagella/cilia found in eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic flagella are single protein filaments embedded in the cell wall and membrane, providing motion by rotating like a propeller. Eukaryotic flagella and cilia, while serving similar functions, have a very different structure and move with a whip-like motion, not a rotor, and are often more numerous per cell.
Card 60
DEFINITION: What is the primary role of ribosomes in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Ribosomes are responsible for reading RNA and synthesizing proteins. They consist of amino acid chains, translating the genetic code from RNA into functional proteins essential for cellular processes.
Card 61
A scientist discovers a new single-celled organism that is eukaryotic, lacks a cell wall, and has an irregular shape, moving via amoeboid movement. Based on the provided notes, what category of eukaryote would this organism most likely fall into?
This organism would most likely fall into the Protist category. Protists are described as a very diverse group, generally unicellular, and can use amoeboid movement, possess flagella or cilia, or lack mobility. The lack of a cell wall and irregular shape are also consistent with descriptions of some protists like Amoeba.
Card 62
Which organelle is responsible for the production of ribosomes in eukaryotic cells?
C) Nucleolus. The nucleolus is specifically identified in the source notes as the site for the production of ribosomes.
Card 63
Why are endospores a critical feature for the survival of some prokaryotic cells in adverse conditions?
Endospores are critical because they protect the prokaryotic cell's DNA in adverse conditions. This allows the cell to survive harsh environments like extreme temperatures, desiccation, or lack of nutrients, ensuring the genetic material is preserved until conditions become favorable again.
Card 64
DEFINITION: What is the function of the Golgi body in eukaryotic cells?
The Golgi body is an organelle in eukaryotic cells responsible for processing and packaging proteins and lipids. It modifies, sorts, and packages these molecules into vesicles for secretion or delivery to other organelles.
Card 65
A patient presents with symptoms of meningitis. Lab tests identify a diplococci bacterium as the causative agent. Based on the provided information, what specific bacterial species is most likely responsible?
Based on the provided information, the diplococci bacterium causing meningitis is most likely Neisseria meningitidis, as the notes state that diplococci cause Meningococcal meningitis.
Card 66
Which of the following statements accurately describes the relationship between RNA and protein?
C) RNA codes for making protein, and protein consists of amino acid chains. The source notes state that RNA codes for making protein, and protein consists of amino acid chains.
Card 67
Explain why eukaryotes are considered 'more complex' cells than prokaryotes, referencing their defining characteristics.
Eukaryotes are considered 'more complex' because they contain a distinct nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, allowing for specialized compartments and functions. Prokaryotes, in contrast, are simpler cells lacking a distinct nucleus and organelles, with their genomic DNA free in the nucleoid region.
Card 68
DEFINITION: What is the role of the vacuole in plant cells, and how does it differ from lysosomes (which some plant cells may lack)?
The vacuole in plant cells primarily serves as a nutrient storage and recycling center, also contributing to turgor pressure. Lysosomes, found in animal cells and potentially absent in some plant cells, are involved in recycling and sensing energy levels, acting as the cell's waste disposal and recycling unit.
Card 69
A researcher is studying a bacterium that causes severe surgical wound infections and is resistant to methicillin. What specific type of bacterium is the researcher most likely working with?
The researcher is most likely working with MRSA (methicillin-resistant S. aureus). The notes state that Staphylococci cause surgical wound infections, and MRSA is a specific type of methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
Card 70
Which of the following is a key feature of prokaryotic cells but not eukaryotic cells?
C) Genomic DNA free in the nucleoid region. While both have ribosomes, a plasma membrane, and some have cell walls, only prokaryotic cells have their genomic DNA free in the nucleoid region, lacking a distinct nucleus.
Card 71
How does the presence of pili benefit prokaryotic cells?
Pili are hairlike projections on prokaryotic cells that primarily enable them to adhere to surfaces. This adherence is crucial for colonization, formation of biofilms, and can be important for pathogenicity by allowing bacteria to attach to host tissues.
Card 72
DEFINITION: What is the 'cytoplasm' and 'plasma membrane' in the context of a cell?
The cytoplasm is the liquid within the cell membrane, containing organelles and other cellular components. The plasma membrane is the outer boundary of the cell, providing a fixed cell environment and regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell.
Card 73
Which of the following eukaryotic organelles is primarily responsible for generating chemical energy for the cell?
B) Mitochondrion. The mitochondrion is explicitly listed as the organelle that generates chemical energy in eukaryotic cells.
Card 74
Why are protists considered a 'very diverse group' despite sharing some characteristics with other eukaryotes?
Protists are considered a very diverse group because they exhibit a wide range of characteristics and do not fit neatly into the Animalia, Plantae, or Fungi kingdoms. They can be photosynthetic, predatory, or both, and possess varied forms of motility like flagella, cilia, or amoeboid movement, reflecting their broad evolutionary paths.
Card 75
What is the primary function of the lysosome in an animal cell?
Lysosomes are crucial for recycling cellular waste materials and play a role in sensing the cell's energy levels. They contain enzymes that break down various biomolecules.
Card 76
Distinguish between the cell wall composition of plant cells and fungal cells.
Plant cell walls are primarily made from cellulose, providing structural support. In contrast, fungal cell walls are composed of chitin, a different polysaccharide that also offers structural integrity.
Card 77
A scientist observes a unicellular organism under a microscope. It has chloroplasts, a cell wall, and a large central vacuole, but no flagella. Based on these features, which type of cell is it most likely to be?
This organism is most likely a plant cell. The presence of chloroplasts, a cell wall (made of cellulose), and a large central vacuole are characteristic features distinguishing plant cells from animal cells, fungi, or most protists.
Card 78
A) Plasma membrane B) Cytoplasm C) Vesicles D) Nucleus
C) Vesicles. Vesicles are small membrane-bound sacs that transport substances within the cell, facilitating the movement of molecules to various destinations.
Card 79
A research team is studying a newly discovered microorganism. They observe that its cells are polynucleate and separated by perforated septa, and it lacks chloroplasts and flagella. Into which kingdom would this organism most likely be classified?
This organism would most likely be classified into the Fungi kingdom. Key characteristics like polynucleate cells, perforated septa, absence of chloroplasts, and lack of flagella are typical features of fungal cells.
Card 80
Define the term 'mycelium' in the context of fungal cells.
Mycelium refers to a loosely organised mass formed by threadlike hyphae, which are the basic structural units of multicellular fungi. It represents the vegetative part of a fungus.
Card 81
An environmental scientist discovers a single-celled organism in a pond. It is photosynthetic, uses amoeboid movement, and does not fit into the Animalia, Plantae, or Fungi kingdoms. What type of cell is this likely to be?
This organism is likely a protist cell. Protists are a diverse group of generally unicellular eukaryotes that do not fit into other kingdoms, often exhibiting varied characteristics like photosynthesis and amoeboid movement.
Card 82
Why is the plasma membrane considered essential for maintaining a fixed cell environment?
The plasma membrane provides a fixed cell environment by regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell. Its selective permeability ensures that the internal conditions remain stable, crucial for cell function.
Card 83
What is the primary function of the vacuole in plant cells, and how does it differ from its role in animal cells (if present)?
In plant cells, the vacuole serves as a major nutrient storage and recycling centre, also contributing to turgor pressure. While animal cells may have small, temporary vacuoles, they do not typically have a large, central vacuole with this extensive role.
Card 84
In binomial nomenclature, if you are referring to multiple species within the genus Plasmodium without specifying each one, what abbreviation would you use?
You would use 'Plasmodium spp.' The abbreviation 'spp.' is used to denote all species within a genus or multiple unspecified species.
Card 85
A microbiologist is examining a slide and sees cells with a cell wall made of chitin, no chloroplasts, and no flagella. What kind of organism is this?
This describes a fungal cell. Fungi are characterized by cell walls made of chitin, the absence of chloroplasts (as they are not photosynthetic), and typically lack flagella or cilia.
Card 86
A) Mitochondrion B) Nucleus C) Chloroplast D) Endoplasmic reticulum
C) Chloroplast. Chloroplasts are the specific organelles within plant cells where photosynthesis, the process of converting light energy into chemical energy, takes place.
Card 87
Explain why protists are considered a very diverse group of organisms.
Protists are diverse because they exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including being photosynthetic, predatory, or both. They can possess flagella, cilia, use amoeboid movement, or lack mobility, and do not fit into the Animalia, Plantae, or Fungi kingdoms.
Card 88
A student is asked to label a diagram of a plant cell. What is the name of the membrane that surrounds the vacuole?
The membrane surrounding the vacuole in a plant cell is called the tonoplast. This membrane regulates the transport of substances into and out of the vacuole.
Card 89
When writing the scientific name for a bacterium like Escherichia coli O157:H7, why is 'O157:H7' not italicized?
The 'O157:H7' part is not italicized because it refers to a subspecies or strain, which, according to binomial nomenclature rules, are written as non-italicized terms after the italicized species name.
Card 90
A cell is observed to have mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, a nucleus, and ribosomes, but lacks a cell wall and chloroplasts. What type of cell is this most likely to be?
This cell is most likely an animal cell. It possesses common eukaryotic organelles but lacks the cell wall and chloroplasts characteristic of plant cells, and the chitin cell wall of fungi.
Card 91
What is the correct way to write the scientific name for the organism responsible for malaria after its first full mention, if its full name is Plasmodium falciparum?
After the first full mention, the correct way to write it is P. falciparum. The genus name can be abbreviated to its initial letter, followed by a period, while the species name remains lowercase and italicized.
Card 92
If a cell has a cell wall made of cellulose and chloroplasts, but no lysosomes, what kind of cell is it?
This describes a plant cell. Plant cells are characterized by a cellulose cell wall, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and are often noted to lack lysosomes, unlike animal cells.
Card 93
What is the primary difference in cellular structure regarding flagella and cilia between animal cells and fungal cells?
Animal cells can possess flagella (microtubule-based) and cilia, which are involved in movement or sensing. Fungal cells, however, typically do not have flagella or cilia.
Card 94
A) Plantae B) Fungi C) Animalia D) Protista
C) Animalia. The presence of a nucleus, ribosomes, and mitochondria indicates a eukaryotic cell, and the absence of a cell wall strongly points towards an animal cell, as plants and fungi both possess cell walls.
Card 95
How does the cytoplasm contribute to the overall function of a cell?
The cytoplasm is the liquid within the cell membrane where many vital cellular processes occur. It provides the medium for organelles to be suspended and for metabolic reactions to take place.
Card 96
A new species is discovered, and its cells are found to be eukaryotic, generally unicellular, and capable of both photosynthesis and predation. It also possesses flagella. Based on Whittaker's system, how would this organism be classified?
This organism would be classified as a protist. Protists are a diverse group of eukaryotes that are often unicellular, can exhibit varied nutritional strategies (photosynthetic, predatory), and possess structures like flagella, yet do not fit into the other major eukaryotic kingdoms.
Card 97
What is the significance of the nucleus in a eukaryotic cell?
The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) and controls the cell's growth, metabolism, and reproduction. It is a defining feature of eukaryotic cells, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells.
Card 98
A researcher is studying a multicellular organism composed of threadlike structures. These structures form a loosely organized mass. What are these individual threadlike structures called, and what is the mass they form?
The individual threadlike structures are called hyphae, and the loosely organized mass they form is known as a mycelium. These are characteristic features of multicellular fungi.
Card 99
A) They have chloroplasts for photosynthesis. B) Their cell walls are made of cellulose. C) They may be polynucleate. D) They always possess flagella for movement.
C) They may be polynucleate. Fungal cells lack chloroplasts, have cell walls made of chitin (not cellulose), and typically do not possess flagella, but can indeed have multiple nuclei within a single cell.
Study Cell bio the way that sticks
Reading cards is not the same as remembering them. In FORKSAI you answer each card before you see the back, and the ones you miss come back first.
Study these cards freeMore flashcard decks
- Cell Biology flashcards (100 cards)
- Cell Biology flashcards (99 cards)
- Cell Biology flashcards (98 cards)
- Cell Biology flashcards (98 cards)
- Cell Biology flashcards (50 cards)
- Cell Biology flashcards (20 cards)