Cell biology

Cell biology is the study of the structure and function of cells, the basic units of life. In AQA GCSE Biology, this topic covers the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, the roles of various organelles, and how cells divide by mitosis. Understanding cell biology is fundamental because it underpins all other topics in biology, from genetics to human physiology. You'll learn how cells are adapted for specific functions, such as sperm cells for reproduction or root hair cells for absorption, and how microscopes have revealed the intricate details of cellular structure.

This topic also introduces key processes like diffusion, osmosis, and active transport, which explain how substances move in and out of cells. These concepts are crucial for understanding how organisms obtain nutrients, exchange gases, and maintain homeostasis. Cell biology is not just about memorising parts of a cell; it's about appreciating how cells work together to form tissues, organs, and entire organisms. Mastery of this topic will give you a solid foundation for more advanced topics like photosynthesis, respiration, and the nervous system.

In your exams, cell biology typically appears in multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and extended writing tasks. You may be asked to label diagrams, compare cell types, or explain how a specific adaptation helps a cell carry out its function. Practical skills are also assessed, such as using a microscope to observe cells and calculating magnification. By the end of this topic, you should be able to confidently describe the structure of animal, plant, and bacterial cells, and explain how substances move across cell membranes.