Question 1

Which statement best summarizes the first tenet of the cell theory?

Accepted Answer

All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.

Question 2

Which scientist is credited with stating that all cells arise from pre-existing cells?

Accepted Answer

Rudolf Virchow

Question 3

A researcher observes a cell under a microscope and notes the absence of a nucleus and organelles. Which type of cell is most likely being observed?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic cell

Question 4

Which organelle is primarily responsible for manufacturing proteins in a eukaryotic cell?

Accepted Answer

Ribosome

Question 5

If a cell is unable to properly package and distribute proteins, which organelle is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Golgi apparatus

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

They provide compression resistance and help in cell division.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Plant cell

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a component of the endomembrane system in eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Question 9

During cell division, which cytoskeletal element is primarily responsible for separating chromosomes?

Accepted Answer

Microtubules

Question 10

A scientist is studying a cell that can move and communicate with other cells. Which cellular structures are most likely involved in these processes?

Accepted Answer

Microfilaments and microtubules

Question 11

Which equation best represents the relationship between cell surface area ($A$) and volume ($V$) for a spherical cell of radius $r$?

Accepted Answer

$A = 4 \pi r^2$, $V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3$

Question 12

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Question 13

A mutation causes a cell to lose its ability to synthesize proteins. Which structure is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes

Question 14

Which scientist first observed living cells under a microscope?

Accepted Answer

Anton van Leeuwenhoek

Question 15

If a cell's microfilaments are disrupted, which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Cell movement and shape maintenance

Question 16

Which organelle is responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome

Question 17

A cell is observed to have extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum. What is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Protein synthesis and export

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

To maximize the surface area-to-volume ratio for efficient exchange of materials.

Question 19

A patient is diagnosed with a genetic disorder affecting the microtubules in their cells. Which symptom would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Problems with cell division and chromosome separation

Question 20

Which of the following is a real-world application of cell theory in medicine?

Accepted Answer

Understanding that cancer results from uncontrolled cell division.

The Cell: Structure, Theory, and Types

Study Guide - Practice Questions