Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why the cells of a whale and a mouse are about the same size, despite the difference in the size of the organisms?

Accepted Answer

Cell size is limited by the surface area-to-volume ratio, which constrains efficient exchange of materials.

Question 2

If you stacked up 8,000 cell membranes, they would only be as thick as a page in a book. If a single cell membrane is $$5 	imes 10$$^{-9}$$ meters thick, what is the approximate thickness of a book page in meters?

Accepted Answer

$$4 	imes 10$$^{-6}$$ meters

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

They are responsible for protein synthesis by translating mRNA.

Question 4

A scientist is using a microscope to observe the internal structure of a mitochondrion. Which type of microscope should they use for the best resolution?

Accepted Answer

Transmission electron microscope (TEM)

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria

Question 6

A mutation causes a cell to be unable to produce functional lysosomes. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The cell will accumulate undigested macromolecules and damaged organelles.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

A dynamic structure where proteins and phospholipids can move laterally within the layer.

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum

Question 9

A plant cell is placed in a hypotonic solution. Which structure prevents the cell from bursting due to water intake?

Accepted Answer

Cell wall

Question 10

Which of the following is evidence supporting the endosymbiotic theory for the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts?

Accepted Answer

Both organelles contain their own circular DNA and ribosomes.

Question 11

Which of the following best explains why red blood cells are produced at a rate of about 2 million per second in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Red blood cells are constantly destroyed and must be replaced to maintain oxygen transport.

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the Golgi apparatus?

Accepted Answer

Refining, storing, and distributing chemical products of the cell

Question 13

A cell is observed to have a nucleus, mitochondria, and a cell wall made of cellulose. Which type of cell is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Plant cell

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the main function of mitochondria?

Accepted Answer

Cellular respiration and ATP production

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes

Question 16

A mutation in a gene encoding a protein in the nuclear envelope results in defective nuclear pores. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of cilia and flagella in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They are motile appendages that aid in cell movement.

Question 18

Which of the following is a function of the central vacuole in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Storage of water and maintenance of turgor pressure

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the plasma membrane is described as a 'mosaic'?

Accepted Answer

It contains a variety of proteins embedded within a phospholipid bilayer.

Question 20

A patient is diagnosed with a genetic disorder that affects the function of their lysosomal enzymes. Which of the following is a likely symptom?

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of undigested substances within cells

Chapter 4: A Tour of the Cell – Key Concepts and Terms

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards