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Detailed Fundamental Unit of Life

The document provides detailed notes on the fundamental unit of life, the cell, outlining its history, types (prokaryotic and eukaryotic), structure, functions, cellular processes, and division. It highlights the significance of cells in living organisms and explains key cellular components such as the plasma membrane, nucleus, and various organelles. Additionally, it describes processes like diffusion, osmosis, and the two types of cell division: mitosis and meiosis.

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13 views

Detailed Fundamental Unit of Life

The document provides detailed notes on the fundamental unit of life, the cell, outlining its history, types (prokaryotic and eukaryotic), structure, functions, cellular processes, and division. It highlights the significance of cells in living organisms and explains key cellular components such as the plasma membrane, nucleus, and various organelles. Additionally, it describes processes like diffusion, osmosis, and the two types of cell division: mitosis and meiosis.

Uploaded by

shammynshah
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The Fundamental Unit of Life - Detailed Notes

1. Introduction to the Cell

The cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of life, capable of independent existence and

performing essential life processes. It is the building block of all living organisms.

History of Discovery:

- 1665: Robert Hooke observed cork cells using a simple microscope and named them "cells."

- 1674: Anton van Leeuwenhoek observed the first living cells in pond water using a more advanced

microscope.

- 1838-1839: Matthias Schleiden and Theodor Schwann proposed the Cell Theory, stating that all

organisms are made up of cells.

- 1855: Rudolf Virchow added that all cells arise from pre-existing cells ("Omnis cellula e cellula").

Importance of Cells:

- Cells provide structure to organisms.

- They perform essential biochemical reactions to sustain life.

- They are responsible for reproduction, growth, and repair in multicellular organisms.

2. Types of Cells

Cells are broadly categorized into two types based on their structure:

1. Prokaryotic Cells:

- Found in organisms like bacteria and archaea.


The Fundamental Unit of Life - Detailed Notes

- Lack membrane-bound organelles and a true nucleus.

- DNA is circular and located in the nucleoid region.

- Example: Escherichia coli (E. coli).

2. Eukaryotic Cells:

- Found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

- Have a true nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane.

- Contain membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, chloroplasts, etc.

- Example: Human cells, plant cells.

3. Structure and Functions of a Cell

The cell consists of the following components:

1. Plasma Membrane:

- Structure: Made of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

- Function: Selectively permeable, regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

2. Cell Wall (in plants):

- Structure: Made of cellulose, a polysaccharide.

- Function: Provides rigidity and protection.

3. Cytoplasm:

- Jelly-like substance that fills the cell.


The Fundamental Unit of Life - Detailed Notes

- Contains organelles and is the site of metabolic activities.

4. Nucleus:

- Structure: Enclosed by a double membrane (nuclear envelope) with pores.

- Function: Stores genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.

5. Organelles:

- Mitochondria: Site of ATP production (energy currency of the cell).

- Ribosomes: Responsible for protein synthesis.

- Endoplasmic Reticulum:

- Rough ER: Synthesizes proteins (due to ribosomes attached).

- Smooth ER: Synthesizes lipids and detoxifies chemicals.

- Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, packages, and transports proteins.

- Lysosomes: Contain digestive enzymes to break down waste.

- Plastids (in plants):

- Chloroplasts: Contain chlorophyll and perform photosynthesis.

- Chromoplasts: Provide pigment to fruits and flowers.

- Leucoplasts: Store starch, proteins, and fats.

- Vacuoles: Storage of water, nutrients, and waste.

4. Cellular Processes

1. Diffusion: Movement of molecules from a region of higher concentration to lower concentration.

2. Osmosis: Movement of water through a semi-permeable membrane from a dilute solution to a


The Fundamental Unit of Life - Detailed Notes

concentrated solution.

3. Active Transport: Movement of substances against the concentration gradient using energy

(ATP).

5. Cell Division

Cell division is the process by which cells replicate. It is of two types:

1. Mitosis:

- Occurs in somatic (body) cells.

- Results in two genetically identical daughter cells.

- Phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase.

2. Meiosis:

- Occurs in reproductive cells.

- Produces four genetically diverse daughter cells with half the chromosome number.

- Consists of Meiosis I and Meiosis II.

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