How does the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) differ from the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

• A. The rough ER contains ribosomes on its surface, while the smooth ER does not.
• B. The rough ER is involved in protein synthesis, while the smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis.
• C. The rough ER is found only in animal cells, while the smooth ER is found only in plant cells.
• D. The rough ER is responsible for detoxification, while the smooth ER is responsible for protein folding.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER): The ER is a network of membranes within the cell, and it comes in two forms: rough and smooth.
2. Identify the rough ER: The rough ER is characterized by the presence of ribosomes on its surface, which gives it a 'rough' appearance under a microscope.
3. Identify the smooth ER: The smooth ER lacks ribosomes on its surface, giving it a 'smooth' appearance.
4. Determine the function of the rough ER: The rough ER is primarily involved in protein synthesis due to the ribosomes attached to its surface, which are the sites of protein production.
5. Determine the function of the smooth ER: The smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and also plays a role in detoxification processes within the cell.