Biology Basics: Cell Structure and Function

Process that occurs when a cell develops to carry out a specialized task

Process of cell division that leads to two identical cells

Process by which cells lose their ability to perform specific functions

Process of cells merging to form a larger cell

Basic unit of structure and function in living things

Smallest unit of matter

Group of similar cells that perform a specific function

Unit of heredity in living organisms

A soft, living material found in animal cells

A hard, nonliving material that makes up the cell wall of a plant cell

A type of protein found in muscle tissue

A carbohydrate that provides energy to animals

Division of the cytoplasm

Division of the nucleus

Replication of DNA

Separation of chromosomes

Green material in chloroplasts that is needed for plants to make food

A type of carbohydrate produced by plants

A pigment that absorbs all colors of light

A protein that helps in plant respiration

Process by which cells reproduce

A method of cell destruction

A type of cellular aging

A phase of cellular metabolism

Small round structures that make proteins

Large organelles that store energy

Flat membranes that transport materials

Complex molecules that synthesize DNA

Thin structure that surrounds a cell

Thick layer that protects the nucleus

Fluid-filled space within the cell

Rigid structure that provides shape to the cell

New cells produced by cell division

Cells that are identical to the parent cell

Cells that undergo apoptosis

Cells that are formed during meiosis

Rice-shaped structures that produce energy for a cell

Small organelles responsible for protein synthesis

Cellular structures involved in photosynthesis

Membrane-bound sacs for storage and transport