Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the plasma membrane in a human cell?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, controlling the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

Question 2

Which of the following statements about the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane is correct?

Accepted Answer

Phospholipids and proteins can move laterally within the layer, giving the membrane flexibility.

Question 3

A scientist is studying a cell that has lost its ability to synthesize proteins for export. Which organelle is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Rough endoplasmic reticulum

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the process of exocytosis?

Accepted Answer

Vesicles fuse with the plasma membrane to release their contents outside the cell.

Question 5

During which phase of the cell cycle does DNA replication occur?

Accepted Answer

S phase of interphase

Question 6

A mutation causes a cell to lack cholesterol in its plasma membrane. Which of the following is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

The membrane will become less stable and more fluid, especially at higher temperatures.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the plasma membrane is described as 'selectively permeable'?

Accepted Answer

It allows some substances to cross more easily than others.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of the cytoskeleton in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Synthesizing DNA during cell division

Question 9

A cell is observed to have a large number of lysosomes. Which of the following is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Digesting and breaking down waste materials and cellular debris

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Accepted Answer

Mitosis produces two genetically identical diploid cells, while meiosis produces four genetically unique haploid cells.

Question 11

Which of the following equations correctly represents the number of chromosomes in human somatic cells after mitosis?

Accepted Answer

$$46$$

Question 12

A red blood cell placed in a hypotonic solution will:

Accepted Answer

Swell and potentially burst due to water entering the cell by osmosis.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of the Golgi apparatus in a cell?

Accepted Answer

It modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria are often called the 'powerhouse' of the cell?

Accepted Answer

They generate most of the cell's ATP through aerobic respiration.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in the cell cycle?

Accepted Answer

Interphase $$\rightarrow$$ Mitosis $$\rightarrow$$ Cytokinesis

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of microvilli on the surface of intestinal epithelial cells?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption.

Question 17

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

Accepted Answer

It is the site of ribosomal RNA synthesis and ribosome assembly.

Question 18

A cell is observed to have an extensive smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Which of the following is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of lipids and detoxification of drugs and poisons.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between exocytosis and endocytosis?

Accepted Answer

Exocytosis moves substances out of the cell, while endocytosis brings substances into the cell.

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of glycoproteins in the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

They play a role in cell recognition and signaling.

Cell Structure and Function: Study Notes for Biological Sciences

Study Guide - Practice Questions