Ch.5 Cytology Quiz

What are organelles?

• Structures within a cell that perform specific functions

• A type of cell

• A type of tissue

• A type of organ

Answer explanation

Organelles are specialized structures within a cell that carry out distinct functions, such as energy production or protein synthesis, making them essential for the cell's overall operation.

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

• It is the site of photosynthesis.

• It is responsible for cellular respiration and energy production.

• It stores genetic information.

• It synthesizes proteins.

Answer explanation

The mitochondrion is known as the powerhouse of the cell, where it is responsible for cellular respiration and energy production, converting nutrients into ATP, which is essential for cellular functions.

What one true organelle do prokaryotic cells have?

• Nucleus

• Ribosome

• Mitochondria

• Chloroplast

Answer explanation

Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles. The only true organelle they possess is the ribosome, which is essential for protein synthesis. Nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts are found in eukaryotic cells.

What contains the cytosol?

• Nucleus

• Cytoplasm

• Mitochondria

• Ribosome

Answer explanation

The cytosol is the fluid component of the cytoplasm, which is the part of the cell outside the nucleus and organelles. Therefore, the correct answer is cytoplasm, as it contains the cytosol.

Which of the following are cytoskeletal proteins?

• Tubulin

• Actin

• Intermediate fibers

• All of the above

Answer explanation

Cytoskeletal proteins include tubulin, actin, and intermediate fibers. Tubulin forms microtubules, actin forms microfilaments, and intermediate fibers provide structural support. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above'.

Eukaryotic cells have flagella and cilia. What are they?

• Organelles for movement

• Parts of the cell nucleus

• Components of the cell membrane

• Types of cell walls

Answer explanation

Eukaryotic cells possess flagella and cilia, which are organelles specifically designed for movement. They enable cells to swim or move fluids across their surfaces, distinguishing them from other cellular components.

Microtubules make up the main structure of which of the following?

• Cytoskeleton

• Nucleus

• Mitochondria

• Ribosome

Answer explanation

Microtubules are key components of the cytoskeleton, providing structural support and shape to the cell. They are not part of the nucleus, mitochondria, or ribosomes, making the cytoskeleton the correct answer.

What is the nuclear membrane?

• A structure that surrounds the nucleus

• A type of cell organelle

• A component of the cytoplasm

• A type of protein

Answer explanation

The nuclear membrane is a structure that surrounds the nucleus, providing a barrier that separates the contents of the nucleus from the cytoplasm. This makes the first answer choice the correct one.

How is the nuclear membrane similar to a cell membrane?

• It regulates the movement of substances.

• It provides structural support.

• It stores genetic information.

• It produces energy.

Answer explanation

The correct choice, 'It regulates the movement of substances,' highlights a key function of the cell membrane, which selectively allows substances to enter or exit the cell, maintaining homeostasis.

Where are the nuclear pores located?

• In the cell membrane

• In the nuclear membrane

• In the cytoplasm

• In the mitochondria

Answer explanation

Nuclear pores are located in the nuclear membrane, which surrounds the nucleus. They facilitate the transport of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, making this the correct answer.