Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of mitochondria in human cells?

Accepted Answer

Production of most cellular ATP via aerobic respiration

Question 2

A patient is diagnosed with a genetic disorder that impairs the function of lysosomal enzymes. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of undigested substances within cells

Question 3

Which organelle is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins received from the rough endoplasmic reticulum?

Accepted Answer

Golgi apparatus

Question 4

Which cytoskeletal element is primarily composed of actin and is involved in cell motility and changes in cell shape?

Accepted Answer

Microfilaments

Question 5

A cell is observed to have an extensive network of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Which function is this cell most likely specialized for?

Accepted Answer

Lipid metabolism and detoxification

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria are considered semiautonomous organelles?

Accepted Answer

They contain their own DNA, RNA, and ribosomes

Question 7

Which pathway describes the fate of a protein synthesized on the rough ER that is destined for secretion from the cell?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → Secretory vesicle → Plasma membrane

Question 8

Which of the following is a function of peroxisomes in human cells?

Accepted Answer

Neutralization of free radicals and breakdown of fatty acids

Question 9

A mutation in the gene encoding a nuclear pore complex protein would most directly affect which cellular process?

Accepted Answer

Transport of large molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm

Question 10

Which of the following structures is responsible for organizing microtubules during cell division?

Accepted Answer

Centrosome

Question 11

Which cellular extension is specialized for increasing surface area to enhance absorption, as seen in intestinal cells?

Accepted Answer

Microvilli

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the composition of chromatin in the nucleus?

Accepted Answer

30% DNA, 60% histone proteins, 10% RNA

Question 13

A scientist observes a cell with a large number of lysosomes. Which of the following is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Intracellular digestion of pathogens

Question 14

Which of the following statements about the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is studded with ribosomes and synthesizes proteins for secretion

Question 15

Which cytoskeletal element is most important for resisting mechanical stress and is composed of tetramer fibrils?

Accepted Answer

Intermediate filaments

Question 16

A sperm cell uses which cellular extension for motility?

Accepted Answer

Flagellum

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of the nucleolus?

Accepted Answer

Site of ribosomal RNA synthesis and ribosome subunit assembly

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events for the processing and distribution of newly synthesized proteins?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → Transport vesicle → Final destination

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of the endomembrane system?

Accepted Answer

Production, degradation, storage, and export of biological molecules

Question 20

A cell is unable to form cilia due to a genetic defect. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Movement of mucus across respiratory epithelium

Cells: The Living Units – Cytoplasm, Organelles, and the Nucleus

Study Guide - Practice Questions