Which of the following are boundary structures for a eukaryotic cell?

• A. Nucleus and mitochondria
• B. Cell membrane and cell wall
• C. Ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Golgi apparatus and lysosomes

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of boundary structures in a eukaryotic cell. Boundary structures are those that define the limits or borders of the cell or its organelles.
2. Identify the primary boundary structure of a eukaryotic cell, which is the cell membrane. The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer that encloses the cell, providing protection and regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
3. Consider the presence of a cell wall in certain eukaryotic cells. While not all eukaryotic cells have a cell wall, plant cells and some fungi do. The cell wall provides additional structural support and protection.
4. Evaluate the options given in the problem. The nucleus and mitochondria have membranes, but they are not boundary structures for the entire cell. Ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum are involved in protein synthesis and transport, but do not serve as boundary structures. Golgi apparatus and lysosomes are involved in processing and digestion within the cell, but are not boundary structures.
5. Conclude that the correct boundary structures for a eukaryotic cell are the cell membrane and, in some cases, the cell wall, as these define the outer limits of the cell.