$$\frac{6 \times 2^2$}{2^3$} = \frac{24}{8} = 3$$

Question 1

Which type of microscope would be most appropriate for observing the changes in shape of a living human white blood cell?

Accepted Answer

Light microscope

Question 2

What is the primary reason most cells are microscopic in size?

Accepted Answer

To increase the surface-to-volume ratio for efficient exchange of materials

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of ribosomes in a cell?

Accepted Answer

They synthesize proteins according to instructions from DNA

Question 4

A scientist wants to study the finest details of the surface texture of a human hair. Which microscope should they use?

Accepted Answer

Scanning electron microscope

Question 5

Which of the following statements is part of the cell theory developed in the mid-1800s?

Accepted Answer

All living things are composed of cells and all cells come from other cells

Question 6

If a cube-shaped cell has a side length of $$2\ \mathrm{\mu m}$$, what is its surface-to-volume ratio? (Surface area $$= 6a^2$, Volume $$= $$a^3)$$

Accepted Answer

$$\frac{6 	imes 2^2$}{2^3$} = \frac{24}{8} = 3$$

Question 7

Which structure is present in plant cells but not in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Chloroplast

Question 8

What is the main function of the plasma membrane in cells?

Accepted Answer

To regulate the exchange of materials between the cell and its environment

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing DNA

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have membrane-enclosed organelles

Question 11

A cell is observed to have a nucleoid region, ribosomes, and a capsule. Which type of cell is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic cell

Question 12

Which organelle is responsible for energy processing in all eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the structure of the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

A phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins

Question 14

Which organelle is involved in the genetic control of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Nucleus

Question 15

A cell is observed to have a large number of ribosomes. What can you infer about its function?

Accepted Answer

It is specialized for protein synthesis

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about the function of the cytoskeleton?

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support and enables movement

Question 17

Which process occurs in the nucleolus of a eukaryotic cell?

Accepted Answer

Assembly of ribosome subunits

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a function of the endomembrane system?

Accepted Answer

Energy conversion

Question 19

If a cell's plasma membrane is damaged, which of the following processes would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Exchange of materials with the environment

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the surface-to-volume ratio is important for cell function?

Accepted Answer

It affects the rate at which materials can be exchanged across the plasma membrane

Chapter 4: A Tour of the Cell – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions