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Describe the role of the Golgi apparatus in the cell.
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The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for transport to different destinations within or outside the cell.
What are two key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells are smaller, simpler, and lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells are larger, more complex, and contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Why is the nucleus often referred to as the 'control center' of the cell?
The nucleus stores the cell's genetic material (DNA) and regulates gene expression, which controls cell growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
What is the significance of ribosomes being found on the rough ER?
Ribosomes on the rough ER synthesize proteins that are either secreted from the cell or inserted into cellular membranes.
What role does the cytoskeleton play in the cell?
The cytoskeleton provides structural support, enables cellular movement, and organizes organelles within the cell.
How do vacuoles contribute to cellular function, particularly in plant cells?
In plant cells, vacuoles store substances, contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, and can contain enzymes for breaking down materials.
Explain the purpose of cell walls in prokaryotic cells.
Cell walls provide structural support and protection to prokaryotic cells and maintain cell shape.
How do chloroplasts contribute to energy conversion in plant cells?
Chloroplasts convert sunlight into chemical energy through photosynthesis, producing glucose that can be used for cellular energy.
What structural components are common to all cells?
All cells have a plasma membrane, cytosol, chromosomes, and ribosomes.
What is a primary function of lysosomes in the cell?
Lysosomes contain digestive enzymes that break down macromolecules, cellular debris, and foreign pathogens.
What is the main difference between the functions of the smooth ER and the rough ER?
The smooth ER is primarily involved in lipid production and detoxification, while the rough ER is involved in protein synthesis and transport.
What is the difference between flagella and cilia?
Flagella are longer and usually singular, aiding in propulsion, while cilia are shorter, more numerous, and move in coordinated patterns to move materials over cell surfaces.
How does the cell theory define the relationship between living organisms and cells?
The cell theory states that all living things are composed of cells and that new cells arise from existing cells.
Explain the endosymbiotic theory in the context of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
The endosymbiotic theory suggests that mitochondria and chloroplasts were once free-living organisms that became incorporated into early eukaryotic cells.
Describe how the logarithmic scale is useful in cell biology.
The logarithmic scale is useful for visualizing the vast size differences between millimeters, micrometers, and nanometers, which helps in understanding the scale at which biological processes occur.
How do electron microscopes differ from light microscopes in terms of resolution and magnification?
Electron microscopes offer greater magnification and resolution (up to 0.2 nanometers) compared to light microscopes, which resolve details up to 0.2 micrometers apart.
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