Cell Structure and Function Review

Front

What is the function of guard cells in plants?

Back

Guard cells are specialized plant cells that regulate the opening and closing of stomata, controlling gas exchange and water loss.

Front

Define facilitated diffusion.

Back

Facilitated diffusion is the process of passive transport of molecules across a cell membrane via a protein channel or carrier, without the use of energy.

Front

What distinguishes eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells?

Back

Eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells, like bacteria, do not.

Front

What is osmosis?

Back

Osmosis is the passive transport of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

Front

What role do mitochondria play in eukaryotic cells?

Back

Mitochondria are the organelles responsible for cellular respiration, converting nutrients into energy (ATP) for the cell.

Front

What is the structure and function of the cell membrane?

Back

The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer that protects the cell, provides structure, and regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Front

Explain the concept of passive transport.

Back

Passive transport is the movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy, relying on concentration gradients.

Front

What is the significance of selectively permeable membranes?

Back

Selectively permeable membranes allow certain substances to pass while blocking others, maintaining homeostasis within the cell.

Front

Describe the process of active transport.

Back

Active transport is the movement of molecules across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, requiring energy (ATP) to do so.

Front

What are ribosomes and their function in the cell?

Back

Ribosomes are cellular structures that synthesize proteins by translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains.