Exploring Cell Biology

Aiden is studying the structure of eukaryotic cells in his biology class. He learns that the main components of a eukaryotic cell include various organelles and structures. What are these main components?

• Nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, cell membrane

• Flagella, cilia, centrioles

• Cytoplasm, vacuoles, plasmodesmata

• Cell wall, chloroplasts, ribosomes

Describe the function of the cell membrane.

• The cell membrane regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

• The cell membrane stores genetic information.

• The cell membrane provides structural support to the cell.

• The cell membrane is responsible for energy production.

Answer explanation

The cell membrane regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, acting as a selective barrier. This function is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, unlike the other options which describe different cellular functions.

What distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?

• Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have both.

• Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus and eukaryotic cells do not.

• Prokaryotic cells are larger than eukaryotic cells.

• Eukaryotic cells lack DNA while prokaryotic cells contain it.

Name two types of plant cells and their functions.

• Chloroplast cells (energy production)

• Root hair cells (gas exchange)

• Phloem cells (nutrient storage)

• Parenchyma cells (storage, photosynthesis) and xylem cells (water transport).

Lily is studying the functions of different organelles in a cell. She learns that mitochondria play a crucial role in providing energy for the cell's activities. What is the specific function of mitochondria in a cell?

• Mitochondria regulate cell division and growth.

• Mitochondria store genetic information for the cell.

• Mitochondria are responsible for protein synthesis.

• Mitochondria produce energy (ATP) for the cell.

What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?

• Ribosomes regulate the cell cycle.

• Ribosomes are responsible for DNA replication.

• Ribosomes synthesize proteins from amino acids.

• Ribosomes store energy in the form of ATP.

Answer explanation

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures that synthesize proteins by linking amino acids together, based on the instructions from messenger RNA. This process is crucial for cell function and growth.

How do lysosomes contribute to cellular function?

• Lysosomes break down waste materials and cellular debris.

• Lysosomes are involved in photosynthesis.

• Lysosomes provide structural support to the cell.

• Lysosomes are responsible for the synthesis of lipids.

Answer explanation

Lysosomes are essential for cellular function as they break down waste materials and cellular debris, recycling components for reuse, thus maintaining cellular health and homeostasis.

What is the role of the endoplasmic reticulum in eukaryotic cells?

• The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid and protein synthesis.

• The endoplasmic reticulum stores genetic information.

• The endoplasmic reticulum is responsible for energy production.

• The endoplasmic reticulum regulates cell division.

Answer explanation

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) plays a crucial role in eukaryotic cells by synthesizing lipids and proteins. It is essential for the production and processing of these biomolecules, making the first answer choice correct.