Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles that compartmentalize cellular processes.

Question 2

A scientist discovers a new cell type with a single, circular DNA molecule, a cell wall containing peptidoglycan, and external structures for movement. Which type of cell is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial cell

Question 3

Which structure is responsible for synthesizing proteins that are destined to be secreted from the cell?

Accepted Answer

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Question 4

A mutation prevents the formation of the nuclear lamina in a eukaryotic cell. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Structural support and organization of the nucleus

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the function of lysosomes in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

They recycle macromolecules and contain acid hydrolases that function at low pH.

Question 6

A plant cell is observed to have a large organelle filled with pigments and toxic compounds. What is the most likely identity and function of this organelle?

Accepted Answer

Vacuole; storage and protection

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Both organelles contain their own DNA and ribosomes.

Question 8

A cell is unable to detoxify hydrogen peroxide and accumulates toxic levels of it. Which organelle is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Peroxisome

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the role of the cytoskeleton in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support, organizes organelles, and facilitates intracellular transport.

Question 10

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

Accepted Answer

Vesicle transport along microtubules

Question 11

Which of the following is a key difference between the cell walls of bacteria and those of plants?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial cell walls are made of peptidoglycan, while plant cell walls are made of cellulose.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why proteins synthesized on the rough ER are often found outside the cell?

Accepted Answer

They are processed and sorted by the Golgi apparatus before being secreted.

Question 13

A cell is observed to have a '9 + 2' arrangement of microtubules in one of its structures. Which structure is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Cilium

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing ribosomal RNA

Question 15

If a mutation caused the proton pumps in lysosomal membranes to stop working, what would be the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Lysosomal pH would increase, reducing enzyme activity.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the path of a protein destined for secretion from a eukaryotic cell?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → vesicle → plasma membrane

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

Ribosome

Question 18

A bacterial cell is exposed to a drug that disrupts peptidoglycan synthesis. What is the most likely effect?

Accepted Answer

The cell wall will weaken, making the cell susceptible to lysis.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why animal cells are more flexible in shape compared to plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Animal cells lack a cell wall and are supported by an extracellular matrix.

Question 20

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

Accepted Answer

Lipid synthesis and detoxification

Inside the Cell: Structure and Function of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

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