Category: Biology Dictionary C

Central Vacuole Definition The central vacuole is a large vacuole found inside of plant cells. A vacuole is a sphere filled with fluid and molecules inside a cell. The central vacuole stores water and maintains turgor pressure in a plant cell. It also pushes the contents of the cell toward the cell membrane, which allows […]

Definition The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord. This body system is responsible for integrating and coordinating the activities of the entire body. Through these physical structures, thought, emotion, and sensation are experienced, and body movements are coordinated. Overview The central nervous system can be thought of as the coordination […]

Cellular Senescence Definition Cellular senescence is a state in which cells can no longer divide. This permanent state entails benefits and detriments for the organism in which the cells live. Whereas cellular senescence was first attributed to tumor suppression and aging, more recent research has found that it also promotes cancer and tissue repair. Therefore, […]

Cellular Respiration Definition Cellular respiration is the process through which cells convert sugars into energy. To create ATP and other forms of energy to power cellular reactions, cells require fuel and an electron acceptor which drives the chemical process of turning energy into a useable form. Cellular Respiration Overview Eukaryotes, including all multicellular organisms and […]

Cell Wall Definition A cell wall is an outer layer surrounding certain cells that is outside of the cell membrane. All cells have cell membranes, but generally only plants, fungi, algae, most bacteria, and archaea have cells with cell walls. The cell wall provides strength and structural support to the cell, and can control to […]

Definition Cell theory is a proposed and widely accepted view of how most life on Earth functions. According to the theory, all organisms are made of cells. Groups of cells create tissues, organs, and organisms. Further, cells can only arise from other cells. These are the main tenants of cell theory. Overview Before the invention […]

What is Cell Signaling? Cell signaling is the process of cellular communication within the body driven by cells releasing and receiving hormones and other signaling molecules. As a process, cell signaling refers to a vast network of communication between, and within, each cell of our body. Cell signaling enables coordination within multicellular organisms. Overview Cell […]

Definition The cell plate is a structure that forms in the cells of land plants while they are undergoing cell division. The cells of land plants, unlike animal cells, have a cell wall made of stiff sugars which surround their cell membranes. In addition to protecting the cell from damage, the cell walls help to […]

Cell Nucleus Definition The cell nucleus is a large organelle in eukaryotic organisms which protects the majority of the DNA within each cell. The nucleus also produces the necessary precursors for protein synthesis. The DNA housed within the cell nucleus contains the information necessary for the creation of the majority of the proteins needed to […]

Definition The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is a double layer of lipids and proteins that surrounds a cell. It separates the cytoplasm (the contents of the cell) from the external environment. It is a feature of all cells, both prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Function of the Cell Membrane The cell membrane gives […]