Ever wondered how your body works at the tiniest level?...
B1 Biology Study Notes: Complete Mindmap Revision

Cell Structure and Types
Your body is made up of eukaryotic cells, which are complex structures packed with specialised parts called organelles. Both animal and plant cells fall into this category, but they've got some key differences you need to know.
Animal cells contain essential organelles like the nucleus (which holds your DNA and controls the cell), mitochondria (the powerhouses that provide energy), ribosomes (protein factories), and cytoplasm (where chemical reactions happen). The cell membrane acts like a bouncer, deciding what gets in and out.
Plant cells have all the same bits as animal cells, plus some extras. They've got a tough cell wall made of cellulose for structure, chloroplasts for photosynthesis (that's why plants are green!), and a large vacuole for storing cell sap and waste products.
Quick Tip: Remember that prokaryotic cells like bacteria are much simpler and smaller - they don't have a proper nucleus or organised organelles like eukaryotic cells do.

Specialised Cells and Movement
Not all cells are the same - they've evolved specific shapes and features to do particular jobs brilliantly. Sperm cells have long tails for swimming and loads of mitochondria for energy. Muscle cells are packed with mitochondria for powerful contractions, whilst nerve cells are super long and thin with branched endings to connect with other nerves.
Stem cells are the ultimate multitaskers - they can turn into any type of cell through a process called differentiation. When a sperm fertilises an egg, it creates a zygote that divides repeatedly to form embryonic stem cells. These amazing cells can become anything from brain cells to skin cells!
Understanding how substances move in and out of cells is crucial. Diffusion happens when molecules spread from high to low concentration areas. Osmosis is specifically about water moving across membranes. Active transport is different - it actually uses energy to move substances against the concentration gradient.
Exam Smart: Practice calculating magnification using the formula: magnification = image size ÷ actual size. You'll definitely need this!
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Ever wondered how your body works at the tiniest level? Cell biology is all about understanding the building blocks of life - from the basic structures inside cells to how they specialise for different jobs in your body.

Cell Structure and Types
Your body is made up of eukaryotic cells, which are complex structures packed with specialised parts called organelles. Both animal and plant cells fall into this category, but they've got some key differences you need to know.
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