Cells can thus be seen as a self-replicating network of catalytic macromolecules engaged in a carefully balanced series of energy conversions that drive biosynthesis and cell movement. But energy alone is not enough to make self-reproduction possible; the cell must contain detailed instructions that dictate exactly how that energy is to be used. These instructions are analogous to the blueprints that a builder uses to construct a house; in the case of cells, however, the blueprints themselves must be duplicated along with the cell before it divides, so that each daughter cell can retain the instructions that it needs for its own replication. These instructions constitute the cell’s heredity.
Principal-structures-of-an-animal-cell-Cytoplasm-surrounds-the-cellsPrincipal structures of an animal cell[Credits : © Merriam-Webster Inc.]
Animal-cells-and-plant-cells-contain-membrane-bound-organelles-includingAnimal cells and plant cells contain membrane-bound organelles, including a distinct nucleus. In …[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
Cutaway-drawing-of-a-eukaryotic-cellCutaway drawing of a eukaryotic cell.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
The-eight-step-tricarboxylic-acid-cycleThe eight-step tricarboxylic acid cycle.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
The-initial-proposal-of-the-structure-of-DNA-by-JamesThe initial proposal of the structure of DNA by James Watson and Francis Crick was accompanied by a …[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
Molecular-genetics-emerged-from-the-realization-that-DNA-and-RNAMolecular genetics emerged from the realization that DNA and RNA constitute the genetic material of …
The-ovum-contains-a-small-collection-of-cells-in-theThe ovum contains a small collection of cells in the early stages of human development. As cells …[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
A-molecular-view-of-the-cell-membrane-Intrinsic-proteins-penetrateA molecular view of the cell membrane[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
Cells are the basic units of life.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
Cells ingest molecules through their plasma membranes.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
The carbon atom is essential to all organic compounds. Every carbon atom can bond with four other …[Credits : Acquired from Vast Video]
Most enzymes are proteins. Enzymes regulate nearly all chemical reactions that occur in living …[Credits : Acquired from Vast Video]
The location, importance, and mechanisms of photosynthesis.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
ATP is the key source of energy in the cells of the body. The water-mediated reaction known as …[Credits : Acquired from Vast Video]
James Watson and Francis Crick revolutionized the study of genetics when they discovered the …[Credits : Acquired from Vast Video]
The structure and movement of cilia and flagella.[Credits : Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.]
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