Cell Biology Quiz: Organelles and Functions

These are small, dense granules that are responsible for synthesizing proteins.

Peroxisomes are cellular organelles that contain oxidative enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down various substances.

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a toxic substance that can damage cells. Peroxisomes contain enzymes that break down hydrogen peroxide into harmless water and oxygen.

The nucleolus is a structure within the nucleus of a cell that is responsible for synthesizing ribosomes.

Ribosomes are synthesized (made) in the nucleolus, a structure within the nucleus of a cell.

Ribosomes attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) are responsible for synthesizing proteins that are destined for export from the cell. These proteins are called secretory proteins.

Ribosomes found free in the cytoplasm are often organized into groups called polysomes, consisting of several ribosomes linked together.

Secretory proteins are synthesized by ribosomes attached to the ER, which then transport these proteins to the Golgi apparatus for modification and packaging before being exported from the cell.

Free ribosomes in the cytoplasm synthesize proteins that are needed within the cell, such as enzymes and structural components.

Polysomes are efficient structures for protein synthesis, allowing multiple ribosomes to translate the same mRNA molecule simultaneously, increasing the rate of protein production.

Lysosomes are membrane-bound sacs containing powerful digestive enzymes called hydrolases.

Lysosomes break down materials taken into the cell by endocytosis, such as bacteria, viruses, and cellular debris.

Lysosomes also break down old or damaged organelles within the cell, ensuring cellular hygiene.

Lysosomal enzymes work best in acidic environments, which is why they are called 'hydrolases.'

Lysosomes are formed by the Golgi apparatus, which packages and modifies proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum.

The inner membrane of mitochondria is folded into projections called cristae, which are the sites of the electron transport chain (ETC).

Mitochondria have their own circular DNA molecule, which allows them to replicate independently and synthesize some of their own proteins.

Mitochondrial DNA codes for about 13 proteins that are essential for oxidative metabolism, the process of producing energy (ATP) in the cell.

Mitochondria are responsible for producing most of the cell's energy through oxidative phosphorylation.

The electron transport chain (ETC) is the final stage of cellular respiration, where electrons are passed from one molecule to another, generating a proton gradient that drives ATP synthesis.

Cilia are hair-like structures found in the respiratory tract and fallopian tubes. They help move mucus and fluids, respectively, while sperm use a tail-like structure called a flagellum for movement.

The nucleus is the control center of the cell, containing the genetic material (DNA) and directing the cell's activities.

The nuclear membrane, a double layer, encloses the nucleus and is connected to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a network of membranes involved in protein synthesis and transport.

The nucleus is the largest and most prominent organelle within the cell, reflecting its crucial role in cell function.

The nuclear membrane is continuous with the ER, a network of membranes involved in protein synthesis and transport, highlighting the interconnectedness of cellular structures.

Chromatin is the uncondensed form of DNA found in the nucleus of non-dividing cells. It's like a long, tangled string. During cell division, it condenses into compact structures called chromosomes.

Chromosomes are highly condensed thread-like structures that carry genetic information. They are visible only during cell division.

Genes are segments of DNA that contain the instructions for building and maintaining an organism.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a molecule that carries genetic instructions in the form of a double helix structure.

Genes are composed of DNA, and they reside within chromosomes, which are formed by condensing chromatin. This complex structure within our cells stores and transmits our genetic information.