AP Biology: Cell Biology & Processes

What is the primary difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells regarding the storage of genetic material?

Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus and store DNA in a nucleoid region, while eukaryotic cells contain their DNA within a membrane-bound nucleus.

Which organelle is responsible for the production of ATP through the process of cellular respiration?

The mitochondrion.

What is the primary function of ribosomes in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, where mRNA is translated into polypeptide chains.

Define osmosis in the context of cell membrane transport.

Osmosis is the passive diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration.

How many daughter cells are produced at the end of mitosis, and are they genetically identical or different?

Mitosis produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells.

Which structure, found in plant cells but not animal cells, provides rigid structural support and protection?

The cell wall.

Describe the path of a secreted protein through the endomembrane system starting from its synthesis.

Rough ER -> Golgi apparatus -> Secretory vesicle -> Plasma membrane.

How does the sodium-potassium pump contribute to a cell's membrane potential?

It uses ATP to pump three Na+ ions out and two K+ ions in, creating an electrochemical gradient across the membrane.

What role does cholesterol play in the animal cell membrane?

It acts as a temperature buffer, maintaining membrane fluidity at low temperatures and providing stability at high temperatures.

What are the three main stages of a typical cell signaling pathway?

Reception, transduction, and response.