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Multiple Choice
What is the primary difference between the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in eukaryotic cells?
A
The smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis, while the rough ER is involved in protein synthesis due to the presence of ribosomes.
B
The smooth ER is found only in plant cells, while the rough ER is found only in animal cells.
C
The smooth ER contains chlorophyll, while the rough ER contains hemoglobin.
D
The smooth ER is responsible for DNA replication, while the rough ER is responsible for RNA transcription.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure and function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in eukaryotic cells. The ER is a network of membranes within the cell that plays a crucial role in the synthesis and transport of proteins and lipids.
Differentiate between the two types of ER: smooth ER and rough ER. The rough ER is characterized by the presence of ribosomes on its surface, giving it a 'rough' appearance under a microscope.
Recognize the primary function of the rough ER. Due to the presence of ribosomes, the rough ER is primarily involved in protein synthesis. Ribosomes are the sites where amino acids are assembled into proteins.
Identify the main function of the smooth ER. Unlike the rough ER, the smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis and metabolism, detoxification processes, and calcium ion storage.
Clarify common misconceptions: The smooth ER is not exclusive to plant cells, nor is the rough ER exclusive to animal cells. Both types of ER are found in various eukaryotic cells. Additionally, neither the smooth ER nor the rough ER is directly involved in DNA replication or RNA transcription, which occur in the nucleus.