Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

As cells increase in size, their volume increases faster than their surface area, limiting the rate of exchange with the environment.

Question 2

A scientist wants to observe the detailed internal structure of a mitochondrion. Which microscope should they use and why?

Accepted Answer

Transmission electron microscope, because it can reveal fine details of internal cell structures at high resolution.

Question 3

Which of the following structures is found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes

Question 4

Which statement correctly distinguishes between the nucleoid and the nucleus?

Accepted Answer

The nucleoid contains DNA in prokaryotes without a surrounding membrane, while the nucleus contains DNA in eukaryotes and is membrane-bound.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a function of the nucleus?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing ATP for cellular energy

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

It assembles ribosomal RNA and combines it with proteins to form ribosomal subunits.

Question 7

A protein is synthesized by a ribosome attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER). What is the most likely destination for this protein?

Accepted Answer

It will be incorporated into the plasma membrane or secreted from the cell.

Question 8

Which of the following is a function unique to plant cell vacuoles?

Accepted Answer

Storage of water and maintenance of turgor pressure

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the energy conversion that occurs in mitochondria?

Accepted Answer

Conversion of chemical energy in glucose to ATP through cellular respiration

Question 10

Which evidence supports the endosymbiotic theory for the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts?

Accepted Answer

Both organelles contain their own circular DNA and ribosomes similar to those of prokaryotes.

Question 11

A mutation disrupts the function of peroxisomes in a eukaryotic cell. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Detoxification of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen

Question 12

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

Accepted Answer

Microtubules

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Plant cell

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of desmosomes (anchoring junctions) in animal tissues?

Accepted Answer

They anchor cells together and provide mechanical stability to tissues.

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support and helps regulate cell behavior.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the difference between smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER has ribosomes on its surface and synthesizes proteins, while smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.

Question 17

A mutation causes a cell to lack functional motor proteins. Which cellular process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Movement of vesicles along microtubules

Question 18

Which of the following junctions allows direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions and small molecules between adjacent animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Gap junctions

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of plasmodesmata in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

They form channels that allow the movement of water, ions, and small molecules between plant cells.

Question 20

A cell is observed to have fimbriae and a capsule. Which type of cell is this most likely to be, and what is the function of these structures?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic cell; fimbriae help in attachment to surfaces and capsule protects against desiccation and immune attack.

Cell Structure and Function: Study Guide for General Biology

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