Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Smaller cells have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, which facilitates efficient exchange of materials with the environment. As cell size increases, the surface area-to-volume ratio decreases, limiting transport.

Question 2

A scientist observes a cell under a microscope and notes the presence of a nucleoid, ribosomes, and a plasma membrane, but no membrane-bound organelles. Which type of cell is being observed?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic cell

Question 3

Which of the following is a major function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of lipids, detoxification of drugs and poisons, and storage of calcium ions

Question 4

Which organelle is responsible for intracellular digestion of particles engulfed by phagocytosis?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Plant cell

Question 6

Which of the following statements about ribosomes is correct?

Accepted Answer

Free ribosomes synthesize proteins that function within the cytosol, while bound ribosomes synthesize proteins for insertion into membranes or for packaging within organelles.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the endosymbiont theory for the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria and chloroplasts originated as prokaryotic cells that were engulfed by a host cell and became endosymbionts.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Golgi apparatus?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of ATP

Question 9

A mutation disrupts the nuclear lamina in a eukaryotic cell. Which cellular process is most likely to be affected?

Accepted Answer

Structural support of the nucleus and organization of nuclear pores

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why alcohol abuse increases tolerance to other drugs such as barbiturates?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol induces the smooth ER to grow, increasing the rate at which drugs are detoxified.

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have internal membranes that compartmentalize their functions, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Question 12

Which equation correctly represents the calculation of the surface area of a cube-shaped cell with side length $$s$$?

Accepted Answer

$$6s^2$$

Question 13

If a cell increases in size such that its volume doubles, what happens to its surface area-to-volume ratio?

Accepted Answer

The surface area-to-volume ratio decreases.

Question 14

Which of the following organelles is most directly involved in the synthesis and secretion of glycoproteins?

Accepted Answer

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining cell shape, enabling cell movement, and facilitating intracellular transport

Question 16

Which of the following statements about mitochondria is true?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria have a double membrane, contain their own DNA, and are the site of cellular respiration.

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

It regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct description of the nucleolus?

Accepted Answer

The nucleolus is a nondividing region of the nucleus where ribosomal RNA is synthesized and ribosome assembly begins.

Question 19

A cell is observed to have many contractile vacuoles. What is the most likely function of these vacuoles?

Accepted Answer

Pumping excess water out of the cell

Chapter 6: A Tour of the Cell – General Biology Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards