This document discusses the structure and function of prokaryotic cells, using E. coli as an example. It describes the key structures of E. coli, including the cell wall, plasma membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, nucleoid, pili, and flagella. The functions of maintaining cell shape, selective transport, holding organelles, protein synthesis, containing genes, adhesion, and locomotion are attributed to these structures, respectively. The document also states that prokaryotes divide through binary fission.

1. Topic 2.2 - Prokaryotic Cells
2.2.1 Draw and label a diagram of the ultrastructure of Escherichia coli (E.coli) as an example of
a prokaryote.
2.2.2 Annotate the diagram with functions of each named structure.
• Cell wall is that it maintains the shape of the cell.
• Plasma membrane acts as a selective membrane that lets sufficient amounts of oxygen and other
nutrients to enter and leave the cell as needed.
• The cytoplasm holds and suspends the organelles of specialized function.
• Ribosomes are the main site for protein synthesis.
• The nucleoid is a region containing naked DNA (contains genes which control the cell).
• The short attachment pili are for adhesion allowing bacteria to colonize environmental surfaces or
cells and resist flushing. Some bacteria can produce a special pilus called a conjugation or sex
pilus that enables conjugation, the transfer of DNA from a donor bacterium to a recipient to
enable genetic recombination.
• Flagella are for locomotion, acting like a propeller.
2.2.3 Identify structures in electron micrographs of E.coli.
2.2.4 State that prokaryotic cells divide by binary fission.
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