Question 1

Which of the following best explains why cells are generally small in size?

Accepted Answer

Smaller cells have a higher surface area to volume ratio, which facilitates efficient exchange of materials with their environment.

Question 2

A scientist wants to observe the three-dimensional surface structure of a virus. Which microscopy technique should they use?

Accepted Answer

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a component of the endomembrane system?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondria

Question 4

During differential centrifugation, which cellular component is most likely to be found in the pellet after the highest speed spin ($$150,000 \ g$$ for 3 hours)?

Accepted Answer

Ribosomes

Question 5

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have their chromosomes enclosed within a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells have their DNA in a nucleoid region.

Question 6

Which organelle is responsible for the synthesis of most ATP in animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Question 7

A mutation prevents the formation of tight junctions in intestinal cells. What is a likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Increased leakage of substances between cells in the intestine

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the function of lysosomes?

Accepted Answer

They contain hydrolytic enzymes that digest macromolecules and recycle cellular components.

Question 9

Which cytoskeletal element is primarily responsible for the movement of vesicles within animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Microtubules

Question 10

Which of the following is a function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of lipids and detoxification of harmful substances

Question 11

A cell is observed to have an extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum. What is the most likely function of this cell?

Accepted Answer

Secretion of large amounts of protein

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why mitochondria and chloroplasts are considered to have evolved from prokaryotic ancestors?

Accepted Answer

They contain their own circular DNA and ribosomes, similar to bacteria.

Question 13

Which of the following cell junctions allows for the direct passage of ions and small molecules between adjacent animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Gap junctions

Question 14

Which of the following is a key difference between plant and animal cells?

Accepted Answer

Plant cells have a cell wall composed of cellulose, while animal cells do not.

Question 15

Which cytoskeletal element is most important for muscle contraction?

Accepted Answer

Microfilaments (actin filaments)

Question 16

A researcher is studying a protein that is synthesized in the rough ER, modified in the Golgi apparatus, and then secreted from the cell. Which pathway best describes the route this protein takes?

Accepted Answer

Rough ER → Golgi apparatus → transport vesicle → plasma membrane

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of peroxisomes in the cell?

Accepted Answer

They carry out oxidation reactions that produce hydrogen peroxide, which is then broken down into water and oxygen.

Question 18

Which of the following statements about the extracellular matrix (ECM) in animal cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

The ECM contains collagen for strength, proteoglycans for matrix structure, and fibronectin for cell attachment.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the inner membrane of mitochondria is highly folded into cristae?

Accepted Answer

The folds increase surface area, allowing for more space for enzymes involved in ATP production.

Question 20

Which of the following is true regarding the polarity of microtubules and microfilaments?

Accepted Answer

Both have a plus and minus end, with polymerization occurring faster at the plus end.

A Tour of the Cell – Study Notes (Campbell Biology, Chapter 6)

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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