Question 1

Which of the following best explains why eukaryotic cells can grow larger and become more complex than prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles that compartmentalize functions, increasing efficiency.

Question 2

A scientist is using a microscope to observe the surface of a pollen grain in three dimensions. Which type of microscope is most appropriate for this observation?

Accepted Answer

Scanning electron microscope (SEM)

Question 3

Which of the following statements about the nuclear envelope is correct?

Accepted Answer

It contains pores that regulate the movement of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.

Question 4

A mutation causes a cell to produce phospholipids with saturated hydrocarbon chains instead of unsaturated ones. What is the most likely effect on the plasma membrane at low temperatures?

Accepted Answer

The membrane will become less fluid and may solidify.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

It is the site of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis and ribosome assembly.

Question 6

A cell is observed to have a large number of peroxisomes. Which function is this cell most likely specialized for?

Accepted Answer

Detoxification of hydrogen peroxide and other metabolic byproducts

Question 7

Which of the following equations correctly represents the surface area of a cube with side length $$l$$?

Accepted Answer

$$A = 6l^2$

Question 8

If a cell increases in size such that its volume increases by a factor of 8, by what factor does its surface area increase?

Accepted Answer

By a factor of 4

Question 9

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, facilitating efficient exchange of materials.

Question 10

Which of the following is a function of the Golgi apparatus in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion

Question 11

A researcher observes a cell with a cell wall, plasma membrane, and a nucleoid region but no membrane-bound organelles. Which type of cell is being observed?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic cell

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the amphipathic nature of phospholipids?

Accepted Answer

They have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions.

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a function of membrane proteins?

Accepted Answer

DNA replication

Question 14

A mutation prevents the formation of nuclear pores in a eukaryotic cell. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of cholesterol in the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

It maintains membrane fluidity by preventing tight packing of phospholipids at low temperatures.

Question 16

Which of the following sequences correctly describes the pathway of a protein destined for secretion from a eukaryotic cell?

Accepted Answer

Nucleus → rough ER → Golgi apparatus → secretory vesicle → plasma membrane

Question 17

Which of the following is a unique feature of plant cells not found in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Chloroplasts

Question 18

A cell is observed to have a large central vacuole, chloroplasts, and a cell wall. Which function is the central vacuole most directly involved in?

Accepted Answer

Storage of water, ions, and waste products

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why intestinal cells are highly folded?

Accepted Answer

Folding increases the surface area, enhancing absorption of nutrients.

Question 20

Which of the following is a major advantage of compartmentalization in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It allows incompatible chemical reactions to occur simultaneously in different organelles.

Cell Structure and Function: Study Notes for General Biology

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards