Question 1

According to cell theory, which of the following statements is correct?

Accepted Answer

All cells come from preexisting cells.

Question 2

Why are most cells small in size? Choose the best explanation based on the surface area-to-volume ratio.

Accepted Answer

A higher surface area-to-volume ratio in small cells allows for more efficient exchange of materials with the environment.

Question 3

A cube-shaped cell has sides of length $$2\ \mu m. $$What is its surface area-to-volume ratio?

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{3}{1}$$

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing proteins for the cell

Question 5

Which structure is found in prokaryotic cells but NOT in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Nucleoid region

Question 6

A scientist wants to separate cell organelles by size and density. Which laboratory technique should they use?

Accepted Answer

Centrifugation

Question 7

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic cell walls is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial cell walls contain peptidoglycan.

Question 8

Some bacteria, such as cyanobacteria, have an internal membrane system. What is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Photosynthesis

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the function of the cytoskeleton in rod-shaped bacteria?

Accepted Answer

It helps maintain cell shape through a network of actin-like protein structures.

Question 10

A bacterial cell is observed to move using a long, whip-like structure. What is this structure called, and what is it made of?

Accepted Answer

Flagellum; made of flagellin

Question 11

Which of the following statements about eukaryotic cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

They contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound compartments.

Question 12

Why do some large cells, such as certain eukaryotic cells, have folds in their cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

To increase the surface area for exchange of materials

Question 13

Which of the following best explains why studying cell biology is equivalent to studying life itself?

Accepted Answer

Cell theory states that life is continuous, tracing back to the first living cells.

Question 14

A researcher is using a microscope to observe a cell structure that is 0.1 $$\mum in $$diameter. Which type of microscope should they use and why?

Accepted Answer

Electron microscope, because its resolution is 2 nm and can resolve structures smaller than 0.2 $$\mum$$

Question 15

Which of the following is a property of the cell-free extract used in biochemical analysis?

Accepted Answer

Its chemical reactions are the same as those inside the cell.

Question 16

Which of the following is a key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Question 17

If a cell's surface area is $$24\ \mu m^2$ and its volume is 8$$\ \mu $$m^3$$, what is its surface area-to-volume ratio?

Accepted Answer

$$3$$

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of proteins embedded in the cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

Binding and adhering to adjacent cells

Question 19

A mutation causes a bacterium to lack peptidoglycan in its cell wall. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The bacterium will be more susceptible to osmotic pressure and may burst.

Cells: The Working Units of Life – Structure, Function, and Diversity

Study Guide - Practice Questions