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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate10 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'The Fundamental Unit of Life' provides an in-depth exploration of the basic unit of life: the cell. It explains the structure and functions of cell organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes, among others. Significant attention is given to the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and processes such as osmosis, diffusion, and cell division are detailed. The chapter also discusses the role of cells in the life processes and the importance of the cell membrane in maintaining cellular functions.
Key Topics
- •Structure and Function of Cell Organelles
- •Differences between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
- •Cell Membrane and Transport Mechanisms
- •Cell Division: Mitosis and Meiosis
- •Process of Osmosis and Diffusion
- •Role of the Nucleus in Eukaryotic Cells
- •Endoplasmic Reticulum and Protein Synthesis
- •Function of Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the structure and function of various cell organelles.
- ✓Differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
- ✓Explain the processes of osmosis and diffusion in cells.
- ✓Describe the role of the cell membrane in maintaining homeostasis.
- ✓Comprehend how cell division contributes to growth and reproduction.
- ✓Identify the connections between cellular structure and function.
Questions in Chapter
Can you name the two organelles we have studied that contain their own genetic material?
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If the organisation of a cell is destroyed due to some physical or chemical influence, what will happen?
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Why are lysosomes known as suicide bags?
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Where are proteins synthesised inside the cell?
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Make a comparison and write down ways in which plant cells are different from animal cells.
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How is a prokaryotic cell different from a eukaryotic cell?
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What would happen if the plasma membrane ruptures or breaks down?
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Which organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell? Why?
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Where do the lipids and proteins constituting the cell membrane get synthesised?
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How does an Amoeba obtain its food?
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What is osmosis?
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Additional Practice Questions
Explain the role of the cell membrane and why it is referred to as selectively permeable.
mediumAnswer: The cell membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It is selectively permeable because it allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others. This function is vital for maintaining a stable internal environment, known as homeostasis.
Discuss the differences between smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum.
mediumAnswer: The rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) has ribosomes attached to its surface, making it appear 'rough'. It is involved in protein synthesis and transportation. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) lacks ribosomes and is involved in the synthesis of lipids, metabolism of carbohydrates, and detoxification of drugs and poisons.
What would be the consequences of a malfunctioning Golgi apparatus in a cell?
hardAnswer: A malfunctioning Golgi apparatus would affect the modification, sorting, and packaging of proteins and lipids. This could lead to the improper functioning of secretory pathways and alterations in cell signaling and membrane composition, ultimately affecting cell survival.
Describe the process of osmosis and its significance in cellular function.
easyAnswer: Osmosis is the movement of water molecules through a selectively permeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to a higher one. It maintains fluid balance in cells and is essential for processes like nutrient absorption and waste removal.
How does cell division differ between mitosis and meiosis?
hardAnswer: Mitosis results in the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells and is involved in growth and repair. Meiosis, however, results in four genetically diverse daughter cells with half the chromosome number of the parent cell, crucial for sexual reproduction.
NCERT Exemplar
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