Question 1

Which organelle is primarily responsible for the synthesis of steroid hormones in Leydig cells, and why is this organelle especially abundant in these cells?

Accepted Answer

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum; because it contains enzymes for lipid and steroid biosynthesis

Question 2

A goblet cell is specialized for secreting mucus, a glycoprotein. Which sequence of organelles is most directly involved in the synthesis and secretion of mucus?

Accepted Answer

Nucleus $\rightarrow$ Rough ER $\rightarrow$ Golgi apparatus $\rightarrow$ Vesicle $\rightarrow$ Plasma membrane

Question 3

Which cytoskeletal element is primarily responsible for the movement of cilia and flagella in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Microtubules

Question 4

A neuron transmits a signal from one end to the other. Which structural feature of the neuron is most critical for this directional signaling, and what is the biological term for this property?

Accepted Answer

Polarity; the neuron has distinct structural and functional regions for input and output

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why plant cells have a large central vacuole?

Accepted Answer

To store water and maintain turgor pressure, supporting the cell's structure

Question 6

A mutation causes a cell to lack functional peroxisomes. Which of the following cellular processes would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of fatty acids and detoxification of hydrogen peroxide

Question 7

If a cell's rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) is damaged, which of the following processes would be most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of secreted and membrane-bound proteins

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the function of the Golgi apparatus in a goblet cell?

Accepted Answer

It modifies, sorts, and packages glycoproteins for secretion

Question 9

A scientist observes a cell with numerous lipid droplets, abundant smooth ER, and high levels of steroid hormone secretion. Which cell type is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Leydig cell

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria are especially abundant in cells with high energy demands, such as muscle cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria are the site of aerobic respiration, producing ATP required for energy-intensive processes

Question 11

A vesicle containing hydrolytic enzymes fuses with a food vacuole in a cell. Which organelle is responsible for this process, and what is its main function?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome; digestion of macromolecules and recycling of cellular components

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the role of microfilaments in the cytoskeleton?

Accepted Answer

They provide structural support and are involved in cell movement and shape changes

Question 13

A patient has a genetic disorder that affects the formation of intermediate filaments. Which of the following symptoms would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Fragile cells that are easily damaged by mechanical stress

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that can move laterally

Question 15

A plant cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. Predict what will happen to the central vacuole and explain why.

Accepted Answer

The central vacuole will lose water and shrink, causing the cell to plasmolyze

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of the centrosome in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

It organizes microtubules and is important for cell division

Question 17

A cell is observed to have a high number of rough ER and Golgi apparatus. Which function is this cell most likely specialized for?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of proteins

Question 18

Which of the following is a key difference between plant and animal cells based on their organelles?

Accepted Answer

Plant cells have chloroplasts and a cell wall, while animal cells do not

Cell Structure and Function: A Tour of the Cell

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards