Flagella

Flagella are whip-like appendages that protrude from the surface of certain types of cells. They are used for locomotion and are found in a variety of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotic cells. Flagella are composed of a protein called flagellin and are powered by a motor protein that allows them to move in a rotating fashion.

Structure of Flagella

Flagella are composed of three main parts:

1. Filament: The long, whip-like structure that extends from the cell surface.
2. Hook: A curved, flexible region that connects the filament to the cell body.
3. Basal body: The motor protein complex that anchors the flagellum to the cell membrane and provides the rotational movement.

Function of Flagella

The primary function of flagella is to enable cell movement. In bacteria, flagella rotate to propel the cell through its environment. In eukaryotic cells, such as sperm cells, flagella facilitate movement through fluid environments.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember when studying flagella:

• Identify the main components of flagella: filament, hook, and basal body.
• Understand the role of flagella in cell motility.
• Compare and contrast flagella in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
• Explore the diversity of flagella in different organisms.
• Examine the structure and function of the motor protein complex in flagella.

Remember to review the structure and function of flagella in various types of cells to gain a comprehensive understanding of their significance in biology.