Bacterial Cell Structures
Bacterial cells are prime examples of prokaryotic cells, and understanding their structure is crucial when studying the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell. This section details the subcellular structures found in bacterial cells, which are simpler than those in eukaryotic cells.
The subcellular structures found in bacterial cells include:
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Flagella: Some bacteria possess these whip-like structures used for movement.
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Cell wall and cell membrane: These provide structure and protection for the bacterial cell.
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Plasmids: Small rings of DNA that can carry additional genetic information.
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Cytoplasm: A jelly-like fluid that fills the cell and is the site of most chemical reactions.
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Single DNA loop: The genetic material of the cell, not enclosed within a nucleus.
Vocabulary: Flagella - Thin, whip-like appendages used for locomotion in some microorganisms.
Example: E. coli bacteria use flagella to move towards food sources or away from harmful substances.
Highlight: Prokaryotic cells are generally much smaller than eukaryotic cells, with their genetic material (DNA) not enclosed in a nucleus.
Understanding these structures and their functions is crucial for students studying biology, especially when comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. This knowledge forms the foundation for more advanced concepts in cell biology and microbiology.