Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the plasma membrane in a typical human cell?

Accepted Answer

It separates the interior of the cell from the external environment, regulates the passage of ions and molecules, and facilitates communication with other cells.

Question 2

A red blood cell is placed in a hypotonic solution. What will most likely happen to the cell, and why?

Accepted Answer

Water will move into the cell, causing it to swell or burst, because the solute concentration is lower outside.

Question 3

Which of the following membrane proteins is primarily responsible for catalyzing biochemical reactions at the membrane surface?

Accepted Answer

Enzymatic proteins

Question 4

The sodium-potassium pump is an example of which type of membrane transport, and what is the main energy source for this process?

Accepted Answer

Active transport; energy from ATP hydrolysis ($$ \mathrm{ATP} \rightarrow \mathrm{ADP} + \mathrm{P_i} )$$

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why the plasma membrane is described as a 'fluid mosaic'?

Accepted Answer

It consists of a phospholipid bilayer with proteins and other molecules embedded, allowing lateral movement within the layer.

Question 6

A patient is given an intravenous solution that is hypertonic relative to their blood plasma. What is the most likely physiological effect on their red blood cells?

Accepted Answer

Red blood cells will shrink as water leaves the cells to balance the solute concentration.

Question 7

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events during the S phase of the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

DNA is replicated, with DNA polymerase synthesizing new strands using old strands as templates.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the function of tight junctions in epithelial tissue?

Accepted Answer

They prevent the passage of substances between cells, maintaining distinct compartments.

Question 9

A tissue sample is observed to have closely packed cells with little extracellular matrix, an apical surface, and is avascular. Which tissue type is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Epithelial tissue

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why cartilage heals more slowly than bone after injury?

Accepted Answer

Cartilage is avascular and lacks a direct blood supply, limiting nutrient delivery and waste removal.

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of areolar connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

Holding and conveying tissue fluid, and playing a role in inflammation

Question 12

A mutation in the gene coding for a membrane receptor protein could most directly affect which cellular process?

Accepted Answer

The cell's ability to receive and respond to external signals

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the difference between exocrine and endocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Exocrine glands secrete products through ducts onto body surfaces, while endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

It stabilizes membrane fluidity and structure, especially at varying temperatures.

Question 15

A tissue sample from the trachea is observed to have ciliated cells and mucus-secreting goblet cells. Which epithelial type is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of gap junctions?

Accepted Answer

They allow direct passage of ions and small molecules between adjacent cells.

Question 17

Which connective tissue type is characterized by a matrix with thick, parallel collagen fibers and is found in tendons and ligaments?

Accepted Answer

Dense regular connective tissue

Question 18

During protein synthesis, what is the role of mRNA, and where does translation occur in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

mRNA carries the genetic code from DNA to ribosomes, and translation occurs in the cytoplasm.

Question 19

A patient has a genetic disorder affecting the production of collagen fibers. Which tissue type would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Connective tissue

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why stratified squamous epithelium is found in areas subject to abrasion, such as the skin and esophagus?

Accepted Answer

Its multiple layers of cells provide protection against mechanical stress and abrasion.

Study Notes: Cells, Plasma Membrane, and Membrane Proteins (Chapters 3-5, Anatomy & Physiology)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards