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Multiple Choice
What is the important structural difference between rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and smooth ER?
A
Rough ER has ribosomes attached to its surface, while smooth ER does not.
B
Rough ER is found only in animal cells, while smooth ER is found only in plant cells.
C
Rough ER is located near the cell membrane, while smooth ER is located near the nucleus.
D
Rough ER is involved in lipid synthesis, while smooth ER is involved in protein synthesis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic structure and function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The ER is a network of membranes within the cell that plays a crucial role in the synthesis and transport of proteins and lipids.
Identify the two types of ER: rough ER and smooth ER. Rough ER is characterized by the presence of ribosomes on its surface, giving it a 'rough' appearance under a microscope. Smooth ER lacks these ribosomes, hence its 'smooth' appearance.
Explore the functions associated with each type of ER. Rough ER is primarily involved in protein synthesis due to the ribosomes attached to its surface. These ribosomes are the sites where amino acids are assembled into proteins.
Understand the role of smooth ER. It is involved in lipid synthesis and metabolism, detoxification processes, and calcium ion storage. The absence of ribosomes means it does not directly participate in protein synthesis.
Clarify the misconception about the location and presence of ER in different cell types. Both rough and smooth ER are found in both animal and plant cells, and their location within the cell can vary depending on the cell type and function.