Question 1

Which statement best summarizes the cell theory as presented in the study materials?

Accepted Answer

All living things are made of cells, and cells are the smallest units of life.

Question 2

Why do smaller cells tend to be more efficient than larger cells?

Accepted Answer

They have a higher surface area to volume ratio, allowing for more efficient exchange of materials.

Question 3

Given a spherical cell with a radius $r$, which formula correctly calculates its surface area to volume ratio (SA:V)?

Accepted Answer

$\frac{3}{r}$

Question 4

A cell has a diameter of $10 \ \mu m$. What is its approximate surface area to volume ratio (SA:V)? Use $SA = 4 \pi r^2$ and $V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3$.

Accepted Answer

$0.6 \ \mu m^{-1}$

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a feature shared by all cells?

Accepted Answer

Nucleus

Question 6

Which cellular structure is responsible for synthesizing proteins?

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes

Question 7

Why are eukaryotic cells typically larger than prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They contain organelles that compartmentalize functions, allowing for increased size.

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why multicellular organisms can have larger cells despite a lower SA:V ratio?

Accepted Answer

Multicellularity allows for specialized cells and systems to transport materials efficiently.

Question 9

Which domain includes organisms with prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria

Question 10

In eukaryotic cells, where does DNA replication occur?

Accepted Answer

Nucleus

Question 11

Which cytoskeletal element is primarily responsible for cell movement and transport of materials within the cell?

Accepted Answer

Microtubules

Question 12

A mutation causes a cell to lose its ability to quickly assemble and break down actin filaments. Which process would be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Cell contraction and movement

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the function of the cytoskeleton?

Accepted Answer

It provides cell shape, organization, and movement.

Question 14

If a cell's surface area is $100 \ \mu m^2$ and its volume is $25 \ \mu m^3$, what is its surface area to volume ratio?

Accepted Answer

$4$

Question 15

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic cells is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

They lack membrane-bound organelles.

Question 16

Which process occurs in the same compartment in prokaryotic cells but in different compartments in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Transcription and translation

Question 17

A scientist observes two cells: one with a nucleoid region and one with a nucleus. Which statement is correct?

Accepted Answer

The cell with a nucleoid region is prokaryotic, and the cell with a nucleus is eukaryotic.

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of the surface area to volume ratio in cells?

Accepted Answer

Cells cannot grow indefinitely large because nutrient and waste exchange becomes inefficient.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why organelles are important in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They allow for compartmentalization of cellular processes, increasing efficiency.

Question 20

A cell biologist is studying a cell that is able to anchor itself in place and maintain its shape. Which cellular structure is most likely responsible for these functions?

Accepted Answer

Cytoskeleton

Introduction to Cells: The SA:V Conundrum (Chapter 7 Study Notes)

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