Cell Biology Flashcards
7 cards from real GCSE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Cell Biology flashcards as text
Active transport differs from diffusion because it:
Answer: Moves substances against a concentration gradient using energy
Active transport uses ATP energy to move substances from low to high concentration — against the concentration gradient.
What is the main function of the large permanent vacuole in a plant cell?
Answer: To store water and maintain turgor pressure
The large permanent vacuole stores cell sap and helps maintain turgor pressure, which keeps plant cells firm.
A student counts 20 cells undergoing mitosis in a sample of 200 cells. What is the mitotic index?
Answer: 0.1
Mitotic index = cells in mitosis ÷ total cells = 20 ÷ 200 = 0.1.
Which of the following best describes a stem cell?
Answer: An undifferentiated cell that can divide and develop into different cell types
Stem cells are unspecialised cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into various specialised cell types.
Why do multicellular organisms need specialised cells?
Answer: Because different functions require cells with different structures
Different functions — like oxygen transport, nerve impulse transmission, or photosynthesis — require cells adapted with specific structural features.
What happens to the chromosomes during the anaphase stage of mitosis?
Answer: Sister chromatids are pulled to opposite poles of the cell
During anaphase, spindle fibres contract and pull sister chromatids to opposite ends of the cell.
Which feature is found in animal cells but NOT in plant cells?
Answer: Centrioles
Centrioles organise the spindle fibres during cell division in animal cells but are absent in most plant cells.