Question 1

Which of the following is NOT one of the four characteristics shared by all cells?

Accepted Answer

Ability to photosynthesize

Question 2

A scientist discovers a new cell type that contains ribosomes, a plasma membrane, and cytoplasm, but lacks a nucleus. Which type of cell is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

A prokaryotic bacterial cell

Question 3

Which of the following is a similarity between bacteria and eukaryotic cells, but NOT a characteristic shared by all cells?

Accepted Answer

Both can have a cell wall

Question 4

Which of the following best describes a key difference between bacteria and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus; bacteria do not.

Question 5

A cell is observed to have a large central vacuole, chloroplasts, and a cell wall. Which type of cell is this, and what is the main function of the central vacuole?

Accepted Answer

Plant cell; stores water and maintains turgor pressure

Question 6

Which organelle is primarily responsible for the synthesis of lipids and detoxification of harmful substances?

Accepted Answer

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Question 7

A mutation prevents a cell from producing functional ribosomes. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Protein synthesis

Question 8

Which of the following correctly matches the organelle with its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria: ATP production through cellular respiration

Question 9

Which structure is found in plant cells but NOT in animal cells, and what is its main function?

Accepted Answer

Chloroplast; conversion of light energy to chemical energy

Question 10

A patient has a genetic disorder that affects the function of peroxisomes. Which of the following cellular processes is most likely to be impaired?

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of fatty acids and detoxification of hydrogen peroxide

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support and facilitates cell movement.

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

Golgi apparatus

Question 13

Which of the following junctions allows for direct communication between adjacent animal cells by permitting the passage of ions and small molecules?

Accepted Answer

Gap junctions

Question 14

A cell is unable to digest worn-out organelles and macromolecules. Which organelle is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the cell membrane is correct?

Accepted Answer

It is composed primarily of a phospholipid bilayer.

Question 16

Which of the following is a difference between animal and plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Plant cells contain chloroplasts; animal cells do not.

Question 17

A researcher observes a cell with a prominent nucleolus. What is the main function of the nucleolus?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and assembly of ribosome subunits

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why antibiotics that target bacterial ribosomes do not harm human cells?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial ribosomes are structurally different from eukaryotic ribosomes.

Question 19

A cell is observed to have extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum. What is the most likely reason for this adaptation?

Accepted Answer

The cell specializes in protein secretion.

Question 20

Which of the following is a function of the cell wall in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Providing structural support and protection

Cell Structure and Function Study Guide

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