Learn: Cells and Movement Across Membranes

Welcome!Today we'll learn about cells and movement. This includes how nutrients and gases move across cell membranes and why it's important for living organisms.

What are cells?Cells are the basic building blocks of all living organisms. They come in different types, like animal cells and plant cells, and they perform specific functions to keep organisms alive.

Animal and Plant CellsAnimal cells have components like a nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane. Plant cells also have these, along with a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a vacuole, which help with structure and photosynthesis.

Levels of OrganisationCells are organised into tissues, tissues into organs, and organs into organ systems. These systems work together to form an entire organism.

How do substances move in and out of cells?Substances like oxygen, water, and nutrients move in and out of cells through processes such as diffusion, osmosis, and active transport. These processes help cells stay healthy and function properly.

DiffusionDiffusion is the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. For example, oxygen moves into cells by diffusion because there's often more oxygen outside the cell than inside.

OsmosisOsmosis is the movement of water through a selectively permeable membrane from a region of high water potential to low water potential. This is crucial for maintaining the balance of water in cells.

Active TransportActive transport moves substances against their concentration gradient (low to high) using energy. For example, root hair cells use active transport to absorb minerals from soil.

EnzymesEnzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body. They work by binding to specific molecules and breaking them down or combining them. Examples include enzymes used in digestion, such as amylase breaking down starch.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about cells, diffusion, osmosis, active transport, and enzymes. Let's test your understanding with a few questions.