Flashcards · Biology · Free
Biology flashcards, generated for you.
Example Biology study cards to learn from right now — then generate a full set from your own notes (plus a practice quiz) and export to Quizlet or Anki. Free, no account needed.
Example Biology flashcards
What is the basic definition of a cell?
The smallest unit of life capable of independent functioning; contains cytoplasm and genetic material enclosed by a membrane.
What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotes lack a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles (bacteria, archaea); eukaryotes have a true nucleus containing DNA and membrane-bound organelles (animals, plants, fungi).
Describe the structure and function of the mitochondrion.
Double-membraned organelle with cristae (inner folds). Produces ATP through oxidative phosphorylation; site of aerobic respiration. Often called the 'powerhouse of the cell.'
What occurs during glycolysis and where does it take place?
Glucose (6-carbon) is split into 2 pyruvate molecules (3-carbon each), yielding net 2 ATP and 2 NADH. Occurs in the cytoplasm; does not require oxygen.
What is the role of the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) in cellular respiration?
Pyruvate is oxidized to CO₂ in the mitochondrial matrix. Generates 3 NADH, 1 FADH₂, and 1 GTP per pyruvate; electron carriers feed into the electron transport chain.
Explain the mechanism of ATP synthesis in the electron transport chain.
Electrons pass through protein complexes, pumping H⁺ into the intermembrane space. The proton gradient drives ATP synthase, phosphorylating ADP to ATP via chemiosmosis.
What is photosynthesis and what are its two main stages?
Process converting light energy into chemical energy (glucose). Light reactions (thylakoid membrane): produce ATP and NADPH. Calvin cycle (stroma): uses ATP/NADPH to fix CO₂ into glucose.
How do enzymes lower activation energy and increase reaction rate?
Enzymes bind substrate at the active site, stabilizing the transition state and reducing the energy barrier. They are unchanged by the reaction and allow reactions to proceed faster at body temperature.
What is homeostasis and why is it critical for organisms?
The maintenance of stable internal conditions (pH, temperature, osmotic pressure) despite external changes. Essential because enzymes and cellular processes function optimally only within narrow ranges.
Explain negative feedback regulation with a specific example.
Mechanism where an effector response counteracts a stimulus, restoring the system to set point. Example: high blood glucose triggers insulin release, which lowers glucose levels, turning off insulin secretion.
Make your own Biology study set
Flashcards for related topics
Studying Biology to build with AI? MindloomHQ turns it into real skills — structured courses, agent projects, and certificates.
Explore MindloomHQ →