Cell Biology Overview Quiz

Cell Wall

• Provides structural support and protection to plant cells, bacteria, fungi and some protists.

Cell Membrane

• Regulates the passage of substances into and out of all cells.
• Composed primarily of phospholipids.

Nucleus

• Contains the cell's genetic material, DNA, in the form of chromosomes.
• Controls cellular activities, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Nucleolus

• Site of ribosome production.
• Located within the nucleus.

Ribosome

• Assists in building proteins.
• Found in all cells.
• Can be free-floating within cytoplasm or attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum.

Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER)

• Synthesizes lipids (fats) and steroids.
• Detoxifies harmful substances.
• Stores calcium ions for cell signaling.

Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER)

• Modifies and transports proteins made by ribosomes attached to the ER.
• Synthesizes phospholipids.

Mitochondria

• The powerhouse of the cell.
• Produces ATP, which is the cell's primary energy source.
• Found in all eukaryotic cells.

Cytoskeleton

• Provides structural support for the cell.
• Plays a role in cell movement, intracellular transport, and cell division.
• Composed of two main components:
  • Microtubules: Long, hollow tubes made of tubulin protein.
    • Assist with movement of chromosomes during cell division.
    • Form the basis of cilia and flagella.
  • Microfilaments: Solid, thin rods composed of actin protein.
    • Play a role in muscle contraction and cell shape changes.
    • Facilitate cell crawling.