Nucleated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nucleated
[ˈnjuː.kli.eɪ.tɪd ]
Definition
cell biology
The term 'nucleated' refers to cells that contain a nucleus, which is a membrane-bound organelle that houses the cell's genetic material. Nucleated cells are fundamental in distinguishing between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells, such as those in animals, plants, and fungi, are nucleated, while prokaryotic cells, like bacteria, are not. This distinction is crucial in the study of cell structure and function. Nucleated cells are often involved in processes such as reproduction, growth, and response to stimuli.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Nucleated red blood cells are found in fetal circulation.
- Plants generally consist of nucleated cells.
- Nucleated cells can be identified under a microscope.
- In some cases, nucleated cells are used in genetic research.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Nucleated cells contain a nucleus, which houses DNA and controls cell functions, essential for living organisms.
- Unlike red blood cells in mammals, which lose their nuclei as they mature, many other cells retain theirs for functioning.
- In multicellular organisms, nucleated structures help with specific tasks, like the organization of tissues and organs.
Physics
- In materials science, nucleation refers to the initial process where atoms or molecules start to cluster and form new phases.
- Nucleated bubbles in boiling liquids form when vapor pressure exceeds liquid pressure, an integral part of the boiling process.
Climate Science
- In meteorology, nucleation processes help in cloud formation; tiny particles serve as nuclei around which water droplets condense.
- The presence of nucleated particles in the atmosphere is crucial for precipitation and impacts weather patterns.
Pop Culture
- In science fiction, the concept of nucleation often appears in narratives concerning the creation of new worlds or life forms.
- Shows like 'Star Trek' have explored themes of life evolving through nucleated clusters of energy or matter in space.
Origin of 'nucleated'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'nucleus', which means 'kernel' or 'core' in Latin, referring to something central.
- The suffix '-ated' indicates a process or condition in which something has been given certain characteristics, such as having a core.
The word 'nucleated' derives from the Latin word 'nucleus', which means 'kernel' or 'core'. As scientific understanding of cell biology evolved in the 19th century, the term began to be applied to cells that possess a distinct nucleus. The prefix 'nucle-' relates to the nucleus, emphasizing its significance within cellular structures. Over time, with advancements in microscopy and biology, the understanding and classification of cells continued to evolve. The term nucleated became widely used in biological sciences to differentiate between cellular types based on the presence or absence of a nucleus, facilitating further research in genetics and cellular behavior.