Understanding how cells work is fundamental to biology, and it's... Show more
English Literature
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
586
•
26 Dec 2025
•
Comprehensive AQA GCSE Biology Topic 1 Mindmap
Bella
@bella_2007
Cell Transport and Microorganisms
Ever wondered how substances move in and out of cells? Single-celled organisms like bacteria have it easy - they're small enough that materials can simply diffuse across their surface. But multicellular organisms like us need special transport systems because we're much bigger!
Bacteria are fascinating little creatures that multiply through binary fission (basically splitting in two) every 20 minutes when conditions are right. You can actually grow them in the lab using nutrient broth or on agar plates - it's like creating a bacterial city!
The practical work involves creating a sterile environment using a Bunsen burner, then carefully applying bacteria with an inoculating loop. Safety is crucial here - we incubate at 25°C to avoid growing dangerous pathogens, and always work cleanly to prevent contamination.
Top Tip: Remember the three factors that speed up diffusion - bigger concentration gradient, higher temperature, and larger surface area. This knowledge is gold for your exams!
Osmosis is simply water moving from where there's lots of it to where there's less, through a partially permeable membrane. The potato practical demonstrates this perfectly - you'll see cylinders change mass as water moves in or out depending on the solution concentration.
Cell Structure and Specialisation
Cell sizes might surprise you - animal cells are generally smaller than plant cells , whilst bacterial cells are absolutely tiny at just 0.2-10 micrometers!
Animal cells contain the essential kit: nucleus (genetic control centre), cytoplasm , cell membrane (bouncer controlling entry), mitochondria (powerhouses for respiration), and ribosomes (protein factories). Plant cells have all of these plus chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a permanent vacuole for support, and a tough cellulose cell wall.
Bacterial cells are completely different - they're prokaryotic, meaning their DNA floats freely rather than being locked in a nucleus. They've got plasmids (small DNA rings) that can jump between bacteria, which is pretty clever for sharing useful traits!
Remember: Animal cells lose their ability to differentiate early on, but plant cells can change throughout their entire lives - that's why you can grow a whole plant from a cutting!
Cell specialisation creates amazing adaptations. Sperm cells are basically swimming missiles with enzymes to penetrate eggs, whilst nerve cells have long axons covered in fat for speedy signal transmission. Each cell type has evolved the perfect structure for its job.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Cell
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Comprehensive AQA GCSE Biology Topic 1 Mindmap
Bella
@bella_2007
Understanding how cells work is fundamental to biology, and it's easier than you might think! We'll explore everything from tiny bacteria to complex human cells, plus learn some brilliant practical techniques that scientists use every day.
Cell Transport and Microorganisms
Ever wondered how substances move in and out of cells? Single-celled organisms like bacteria have it easy - they're small enough that materials can simply diffuse across their surface. But multicellular organisms like us need special transport systems because we're much bigger!
Bacteria are fascinating little creatures that multiply through binary fission (basically splitting in two) every 20 minutes when conditions are right. You can actually grow them in the lab using nutrient broth or on agar plates - it's like creating a bacterial city!
The practical work involves creating a sterile environment using a Bunsen burner, then carefully applying bacteria with an inoculating loop. Safety is crucial here - we incubate at 25°C to avoid growing dangerous pathogens, and always work cleanly to prevent contamination.
Top Tip: Remember the three factors that speed up diffusion - bigger concentration gradient, higher temperature, and larger surface area. This knowledge is gold for your exams!
Osmosis is simply water moving from where there's lots of it to where there's less, through a partially permeable membrane. The potato practical demonstrates this perfectly - you'll see cylinders change mass as water moves in or out depending on the solution concentration.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Cell Structure and Specialisation
Cell sizes might surprise you - animal cells are generally smaller than plant cells , whilst bacterial cells are absolutely tiny at just 0.2-10 micrometers!
Animal cells contain the essential kit: nucleus (genetic control centre), cytoplasm , cell membrane (bouncer controlling entry), mitochondria (powerhouses for respiration), and ribosomes (protein factories). Plant cells have all of these plus chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a permanent vacuole for support, and a tough cellulose cell wall.
Bacterial cells are completely different - they're prokaryotic, meaning their DNA floats freely rather than being locked in a nucleus. They've got plasmids (small DNA rings) that can jump between bacteria, which is pretty clever for sharing useful traits!
Remember: Animal cells lose their ability to differentiate early on, but plant cells can change throughout their entire lives - that's why you can grow a whole plant from a cutting!
Cell specialisation creates amazing adaptations. Sperm cells are basically swimming missiles with enzymes to penetrate eggs, whilst nerve cells have long axons covered in fat for speedy signal transmission. Each cell type has evolved the perfect structure for its job.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
26
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar content
Cell Biology Overview
Explore key concepts in cell biology, including cell structure, functions, and processes such as mitosis and meiosis. This summary covers essential topics like eukaryotic cells, diffusion, osmosis, and stem cell types, providing a clear understanding for AQA Biology B1 and B2. Ideal for quick revision and exam preparation.
Biology11
Understanding DNA Structure
Explore the fundamentals of DNA, chromosomes, and genes in this concise overview. Learn about the double helix structure, the significance of chromosomes, and the role of genes in coding for proteins. Ideal for students studying genetics and biology.
Biology8
Cell Division Essentials
Explore the fundamentals of cell division, including key processes like mitosis, cytokinesis, and the cell cycle. Understand the role of chromosomes, DNA replication, and stem cells in growth and repair. This summary is ideal for GCSE AQA Biology students focusing on Cell Biology.
Biology11
Cell Nucleus and Chromosomes
Explore the structure and function of chromosomes within the cell nucleus. This summary covers the relationship between chromosomes, genes, and DNA molecules, providing a clear understanding of genetic organization. Ideal for biology students studying cell structure.
Biology9
Mitosis and Chromosome Dynamics
Explore the process of mitosis and the role of chromosomes in cell division. This summary covers key concepts such as DNA replication, the cell cycle, and the formation of identical daughter cells. Ideal for students studying cell biology and genetics.
Biology11
Understanding DNA Structure
Explore the fundamental concepts of DNA, including its double helix structure, nucleotide composition, and base pairing rules. This summary covers essential topics for GCSE Biology, focusing on the role of DNA in genetics and molecular biology.
Biology9
Most popular content: Cell
Most popular content in Biology
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user