Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Smaller cells have a greater surface area-to-volume ratio, which facilitates efficient exchange of materials with their environment.

Question 2

Which of the following structures is found in plant cells but NOT in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Central vacuole

Question 3

A scientist wants to study the detailed internal structure of mitochondria. Which microscopy technique should they use and why?

Accepted Answer

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), because it provides high-resolution images of internal cell structures.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER)?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis and folding of proteins destined for secretion or for membranes.

Question 5

A mutation prevents the formation of lysosomes in a human cell. Which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Phagocytosis and autophagy, leading to accumulation of damaged organelles and undigested material.

Question 6

Which of the following statements about mitochondria and chloroplasts is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Both contain their own DNA and are involved in energy conversion processes.

Question 7

A cell is observed to have a large number of ribosomes attached to its rough ER. What is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of large amounts of proteins, such as digestive enzymes or hormones.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the pathway of a newly synthesized secretory protein?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER $$\rightarrow$$ transport vesicle $$\rightarrow$$ Golgi apparatus $$\rightarrow$$ transport vesicle $$\rightarrow$$ plasma membrane

Question 9

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

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of fatty acids and detoxification of harmful substances, producing hydrogen peroxide as a byproduct.

Question 10

A patient is diagnosed with a genetic disorder that affects the cytoskeleton. Which of the following symptoms is most likely to be observed?

Accepted Answer

Impaired cell movement and abnormal cell shape.

Question 11

Which of the following statements about the nuclear envelope is correct?

Accepted Answer

It consists of a double membrane with nuclear pores that regulate the entry and exit of molecules.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why antibiotics that target prokaryotic ribosomes do not harm eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes have structural differences, allowing selective inhibition.

Question 13

A researcher homogenizes cells and centrifuges the mixture at low speed. Which cellular components are most likely to be found in the pellet?

Accepted Answer

Nuclei and unbroken cells, because they are the largest and densest components.

Question 14

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

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of ATP for cellular energy.

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

It provides structural support, enables cell movement, and assists in intracellular transport.

Question 16

A cell is observed to have an extensive smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). Which function is this cell most likely specialized for?

Accepted Answer

Detoxification of drugs and synthesis of lipids.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains the process of autophagy?

Accepted Answer

A lysosome engulfs and recycles the cell's own damaged organelles.

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-world example of phagocytosis in human health?

Accepted Answer

Macrophages engulf and destroy bacteria to defend the body against infection.

Question 19

Which of the following statements about the endomembrane system is correct?

Accepted Answer

It includes the nuclear envelope, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and plasma membrane.

Question 20

A mutation causes a defect in the molecular tags added to proteins in the Golgi apparatus. Which of the following is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Proteins may be sent to incorrect destinations within the cell, disrupting cellular function.

A Tour of the Cell: Structure, Function, and Organization

Study Guide - Practice Questions