This document summarizes key aspects of cell biology. It outlines the cell theory, noting that all organisms are composed of cells, cells come from pre-existing cells, and organisms are either unicellular or multicellular. It also describes the features of prokaryotic cells, including their cell walls, plasma membranes, ribosomes, and lack of membrane-bound organelles. Finally, it lists common features of eukaryotic cells such as organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, chloroplasts, and a nucleus that houses DNA.

1. Chapter 2- Cells
Ahsan, Jean, Felicia, Chris, Connor
2.1-Cell Theory
All organisms are composed of one or more cells
Cells are the smallest unit of life
All cells come from pre-existing cells
Organisms are either unicellular or multicellular and all organisms carry out these functions of
life- metabolism, growth, reproduction, response, homeostasis, nutrition
The surface area to volume ratio, the surface area will always be more than the volume. The
distance between the nucleus and the membrane should be small to get materials in and out of
the cells faster. Surface area determines how much is available to the cell, and volume
determines the needs of the cell.
Cells divide in order to maintain a high surface area to volume ratio.
Each cell contains all the genetic information for the entire organism, but each individual cell is
specialized intended functions.
2.2- Prokaryotic Cells
Features of a Prokaryotic cell include:
Cell wall
A plasma membrane
Ribosomes
Flagella
Free DNA, the nucleoid
Pili
Single cell organisms
Organelles are not membrane bound
Generally small- 1-10 micrometers
2.3- Eukaryotic Cells
Common features of eukaryotic cells:
Endoplasmic reticulum: contain ribosomes
Ribosomes: protein synthesis
Lysosomes(not in plant cells): contains digestive enzymes
Golgi apparatus: modifies and packages proteins to be sent outside of the cell

2. Mitochondria: involved in ATP synthesis
Nucleus: contains DNA, controls functions of the cell
Chloroplast(only in plant cells and algal cells): involved in photosynthesis
Vacuoles: storage for potential food, waste, toxins, and water
Large: 5-100 micrometers
DNA is often in the form of chromosomes found within the nucleus
Plant cell:
Animal cell: