Try 5 free practice questions with instant feedback. See how ready you are.
Question 1
What is the primary function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER)?
Answer: The SER synthesizes lipids, metabolizes carbohydrates, detoxifies drugs and poisons, and stores calcium ions. It lacks ribosomes, distinguishing it from the rough ER.
Question 2
How does the structure of the mitochondrion relate to its function in ATP production?
Answer: The highly folded inner membrane (cristae) greatly increases surface area for the electron transport chain and ATP synthase, maximizing ATP output via oxidative phosphorylation.
Question 3
What structural feature distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?
Answer: Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus and membrane-bound organelles; their genetic material exists as a single circular chromosome in the nucleoid region.
Question 4
What is the function of the Golgi apparatus in the endomembrane system?
Answer: The Golgi apparatus receives proteins from the rough ER, modifies them (e.g., glycosylation), sorts them, and packages them into vesicles for transport to their final destinations.
Question 5
Why do plant cells but not animal cells have a central vacuole, and what is its primary function?
Answer: Plant cells have a central vacuole to store water, maintain turgor pressure for structural support, and store pigments and waste products. Animal cells rely on other mechanisms for support.