$$\text{Surface Area} = 6a^2$, $$\text{Volume} = $$a^3$$

Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have their DNA enclosed within a double membrane nucleus, while prokaryotic cells have free-floating DNA in the cytoplasm.

Question 2

Which organelle is responsible for the majority of ATP production in eukaryotic cells, and what is the main process occurring there?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion; aerobic respiration

Question 3

A scientist observes a cell with a large central vacuole, chloroplasts, and a cell wall. Which type of cell is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Plant cell

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why cells are typically small in size?

Accepted Answer

Smaller cells have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, which facilitates efficient exchange of materials with the environment.

Question 5

Which organelle is directly involved in the synthesis of secretory proteins and is studded with ribosomes?

Accepted Answer

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Question 6

A mutation prevents the formation of microtubules in a cell. Which of the following processes would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Movement of cilia and flagella

Question 7

Which of the following equations correctly represents how the surface area and volume of a cube-shaped cell change as the cell grows?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Surface Area} = 6a^2$, $$	ext{Volume} = $$a^3$$

Question 8

Which organelle is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles?

Accepted Answer

Golgi apparatus

Question 9

A cell is observed to have many lysosomes. Which of the following is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Intracellular digestion and recycling of cellular components

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of plasmodesmata in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

They are channels that allow for communication and transport between adjacent plant cells.

Question 11

Which of the following organelles contains its own DNA and is capable of self-replication?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Question 12

A cell is exposed to a toxin that inhibits the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Detoxification of harmful substances

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Providing structural support and facilitating intracellular transport

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

It manufactures ribosomal RNA, a major component of ribosomes.

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a component of the endomembrane system?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Question 16

A mutation causes a plant cell to lack a central vacuole. Which of the following functions would be most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Water regulation and storage of ions and pigments

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria and chloroplasts are considered semi-autonomous organelles?

Accepted Answer

They contain their own DNA and can self-replicate.

Question 18

Which of the following processes is most directly associated with the function of lysosomes?

Accepted Answer

Autophagy

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct sequence of the pathway for a secretory protein from synthesis to secretion?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → transport vesicle → plasma membrane

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of contractile vacuoles in protists?

Accepted Answer

They regulate water pressure and aid in locomotion.

Cell Structure and Function: A Tour of the Cell

Study Guide - Practice Questions