Biology 101

Week 2: Cell Structure and Function

This week, we will explore the fundamental unit of life - the cell. We will delve into the intricate structures within cells and understand how these structures contribute to various cellular functions that sustain life.

Cell Theory

The cell theory is a fundamental principle in biology that states:

Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Cells can be classified into two main categories based on their structural complexity:

  1. Prokaryotic Cells

    Prokaryotic cells are relatively simple and lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Examples include bacteria and archaea.

  2. Eukaryotic Cells

    Eukaryotic cells are more complex, with a membrane-bound nucleus and various organelles. Examples include plant and animal cells.

Cell Structures and Functions

In this section, we will explore the various structures found within eukaryotic cells and their respective functions.

Week 2 Exercises

  1. Draw a diagram of a eukaryotic cell and label the following organelles: nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosome. Briefly describe the function of each organelle.

  2. Explain the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells in terms of their structure and complexity.

  3. Research and describe the process of cell division (mitosis and meiosis) and its significance in living organisms.

Week 2 Quiz

  1. Which of the following is a component of the cell theory?

    1. All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
    2. Cells are the smallest units of life.
    3. All cells arise from pre-existing cells through cell division.
    4. Both a and c
  2. Which organelle is responsible for producing energy for the cell?

    1. Nucleus
    2. Mitochondria
    3. Golgi apparatus
    4. Endoplasmic reticulum
  3. What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

    1. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.
    2. Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
    3. Prokaryotic cells are more complex than eukaryotic cells.
    4. Eukaryotic cells are found only in plants, while prokaryotic cells are found only in animals.

Week 3: Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis

This week, we will explore the processes of cellular respiration and photosynthesis, which are fundamental to the sustenance of life on Earth. We will delve into the intricate steps involved in these processes and understand how they interrelate to maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.

Cellular Respiration

Cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert the chemical energy stored in organic molecules, such as glucose, into a form that can be used to fuel cellular activities. This process involves a series of chemical reactions that occur in the cytoplasm and mitochondria of cells.

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and other photosynthetic organisms convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells and involves a series of light-dependent and light-independent reactions.

The Interrelationship between Cellular Respiration and Photosynthesis

Cellular respiration and photosynthesis are interdependent processes that maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. During photosynthesis, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen as a byproduct. Conversely, during cellular respiration, organisms consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide as a waste product.

Week 3 Exercises

  1. Draw and label the main steps of cellular respiration, including the locations where each step occurs within the cell.

  2. Explain the light-dependent and light-independent reactions involved in photosynthesis, and describe the role of chloroplasts in this process.

  3. Discuss the importance of the interrelationship between cellular respiration and photosynthesis in maintaining the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in our atmosphere.

Week 3 Quiz

  1. Which of the following is the main product of cellular respiration?

    1. Glucose
    2. Oxygen
    3. Carbon dioxide
    4. ATP
  2. In which cellular organelle does photosynthesis take place?

    1. Mitochondria
    2. Chloroplasts
    3. Nucleus
    4. Endoplasmic reticulum
  3. What is the primary role of cellular respiration and photosynthesis in maintaining the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in our atmosphere?

    1. Cellular respiration releases oxygen, while photosynthesis releases carbon dioxide.
    2. Cellular respiration releases carbon dioxide, while photosynthesis releases oxygen.
    3. Both processes release oxygen and carbon dioxide in equal amounts.
    4. Neither process is involved in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.