Introduction to Cells: Structure & Function Flash Cards        Test Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Cell The basic unit of structure and function in living things
Cell Theory The explanation of the relationship between cells and living things
Three main ideas that make up the cell theory
  • All living things are made of cells.
  • Cells are the basic units of structure and function in living things.
  • Living cells come only from other living things.
Three scientists that contributed to the cell theory
  • Matthias Schleiden
  • Theodor Schwann
  • Rudolf Virchow
Organelle

 

 Tiny structure found in cells. Each has a specific function.
Cell Wall A rigid layer of nonliving material that surrounds the cells of plants and some other organisms.
Cell Membrane A cell structure that controls which substances can enter or leave the cell.
Nucleus The control center of the cell. It contains the genetic material (DNA) which directs all cell activities.
Chromosome A double rod of genetic material that directs the production of proteins in the cell and are responsible for cell growth and reproduction.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

(Plural: Endoplasmic reticuli)

 A maze of passageways on which proteins are transported
Ribosome Cell structure where proteins are assembled. Some ribosomes float in the cytoplasm; others are attached to ER.
Mitochondrion

(Plural = Mitochondria)

 Cell structure that produces most of the energy needed for a cell’s activities.
Vacuole Storage area (sac) inside the cell for water, food, and wastes.
Lysosome Cell structure that contains digestive enzymes that break down food particles and dead cells.
Golgi Body Cell structure that receives proteins from the ER, packages, and distributes them to other parts of the cell
Chloroplast Cell structure that captures the energy from light and uses it to make food in green plants.
Cytoplasm The region inside a cell membrane. It contains a clear, jellylike substance that fills a cell.
Tissue A group of cells that are similar in structure and function.
Organ A groups of tissues that work together towards a specific goal.
Organ System A group of different organs working toward a specific goal
Organism An entire living thing that carries out all life activities.