AP Biology Flashcards: Origins of Cell Compartmentalization
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 21 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is the primary function of the Rough ER?
The Rough ER is responsible for synthesizing proteins that are often destined for transport or secretion.
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What is the primary function of the Rough ER?
The Rough ER is responsible for synthesizing proteins that are often destined for transport or secretion.
What is the primary function of chloroplasts?
Chloroplasts are the site of photosynthesis, the process of converting light energy into chemical energy.
Which three organelles mentioned have a double membrane?
The mitochondria, chloroplasts, and nucleus (implied by cell compartmentalization context, though not explicitly detailed) all feature a double membrane.
A cell needs to break down and recycle a worn-out mitochondrion. Which organelle will carry out this task?
A lysosome will carry out this task by using its hydrolytic enzymes to digest the old organelle.
Describe the Golgi complex.
The Golgi complex is a series of flattened membrane sacs that processes cellular products.
What are ribosomes composed of and what is their function?
Ribosomes are composed of rRNA and protein. Their primary function is to synthesize proteins.
Describe the structure of mitochondria.
Mitochondria have a double membrane, with the inner membrane having convoluted folds that create compartments for metabolic reactions.
What are the primary roles of the Golgi complex in the cell?
The Golgi complex chemically modifies, folds, and packages cellular products like proteins and lipids for trafficking to their final destinations.
What is a vacuole?
Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs found within cells that are used for storage.
A plant begins to wilt due to a lack of water. The loss of what specific pressure, maintained by which organelle, is responsible?
The plant is wilting due to a loss of turgor pressure, which is maintained by the large central vacuole.
What are the two main functions of the Smooth ER?
The Smooth ER synthesizes lipids and is involved in the detoxification of harmful substances.
A cell in the liver is actively breaking down toxins. Which specific organelle would be highly active?
The smooth ER would be highly active, as one of its primary functions is detoxification.
What is the evolutionary significance of ribosomes being found in all forms of life?
The presence of ribosomes in all forms of life reflects a common ancestry among all known life.
What are chloroplasts and in which organisms are they found?
Chloroplasts are organelles with a double membrane that are found in plants and algae.
How do subcellular components contribute to the overall function of a cell?
The specific structure and function of subcellular components and organelles, such as the ER or mitochondria, contribute to the specialized processes and overall function of the cell.
What are lysosomes and what do they contain?
Lysosomes are membrane-bound sacs that contain hydrolytic enzymes used for digestion.
Besides digesting materials, what other critical cellular process do lysosomes play a role in?
Lysosomes also play a role in programmed cell death, a process known as apoptosis.
How does the structure of the mitochondria's inner membrane relate to its function?
The convoluted inner folds provide a large surface area, creating compartments for metabolic reactions and enabling efficient ATP synthesis.
What are the two main functions of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?
The endoplasmic reticulum provides mechanical support and plays a key role in intracellular transport.
What are the two main functions of the large central vacuole in plant cells?
In plant cells, the large central vacuole stores nutrients and water, and it plays a critical role in maintaining turgor pressure.
What is the endomembrane system?
The endomembrane system is a group of organelles that work together to modify, package, and transport lipids and proteins within the cell.