Question 1

Which of the following best explains why eukaryotic cells are able to carry out more specialized functions than prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells contain compartmentalized organelles that allow for specialized environments and processes.

Question 2

A scientist wants to observe the detailed internal structure of mitochondria in a liver cell. Which microscope should she use and why?

Accepted Answer

Transmission electron microscope, because it provides high-resolution images of internal cell structures.

Question 3

As a cell increases in size, what happens to its surface area to volume ratio, and why does this limit cell size?

Accepted Answer

The ratio decreases, making it harder for the cell to efficiently exchange materials with its environment.

Question 4

Which of the following correctly matches a eukaryotic organelle with its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Golgi apparatus – modification and sorting of proteins

Question 5

A protein is synthesized in a eukaryotic cell and destined for secretion. Which of the following correctly lists the order of organelles it passes through?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → Plasma membrane

Question 6

Which of the following statements about mitochondria and chloroplasts supports the endosymbiont theory?

Accepted Answer

Both organelles contain their own circular DNA and double membranes.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the function of nuclear pores in the nuclear envelope?

Accepted Answer

They regulate the movement of molecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of lysosomes?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing proteins

Question 9

A mutation causes a cell to lack functional microtubules. Which of the following processes would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Chromosome separation during cell division

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

It is a dense region within the nucleus where ribosomal RNA is synthesized and ribosome assembly begins.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about the rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is correct?

Accepted Answer

The rough ER has ribosomes attached and synthesizes proteins, while the smooth ER synthesizes lipids and detoxifies drugs.

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support and mediates cell signaling.

Question 13

A plant cell is observed to have a rigid structure outside its plasma membrane. What is this structure primarily composed of?

Accepted Answer

Cellulose

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the energy conversion that occurs in mitochondria?

Accepted Answer

Chemical energy from glucose to ATP

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a component of the cytoskeleton?

Accepted Answer

Glycocalyx

Question 16

If a cell's surface area is $$100 \, \mu m^2$ and its volume is 50$$ \, \mu $$m^3$$, what is its surface area to volume ratio?

Accepted Answer

$$2 \, \mu m$$^{-1}$$

Question 17

Which of the following is a function of vacuoles in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Storage of water and waste products

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria and chloroplasts are considered 'semiautonomous' organelles?

Accepted Answer

They contain their own DNA and ribosomes, but depend on the cell for most proteins.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between free and bound ribosomes?

Accepted Answer

Free ribosomes are suspended in the cytosol and make proteins for use within the cell, while bound ribosomes are attached to the rough ER and make proteins for export or for membranes.

Question 20

A mutation disrupts the function of actin filaments in a cell. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Muscle contraction

General Biology Study Guide: Cell Structures (Chapter 4)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards