Cell Structure and Function - AP Biology

What is the main function of intermediate filaments?

Intermediate filaments provide mechanical support. Rope-like fibers resist tension and compression forces.
Which organelle is involved in the synthesis of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation?

Mitochondria are involved in ATP synthesis. Electron transport chain produces ATP from ADP.
What is the role of the plasma membrane in maintaining homeostasis?

The plasma membrane regulates ion and molecule passage. Controls what enters and exits the cell.
Which structure is responsible for organizing microtubules in animal cells?

The centrosome organizes microtubules. Contains two centrioles that organize spindle fibers.
Which organelle is responsible for ATP production in the cell?

The mitochondrion is responsible for ATP production. Cellular respiration produces ATP through oxidative phosphorylation.
Identify the structure that separates the internal contents of the nucleus from the cytoplasm.

The nuclear envelope separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm. Double membrane with pores controls nuclear transport.
Identify the organelle that contains chlorophyll in plant cells.

Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll. Green pigment captures light energy for photosynthesis.
Identify the fluid-filled organelle responsible for storage in plant cells.

The central vacuole is responsible for storage. It maintains turgor pressure for plant rigidity.
Identify the structure that facilitates cell movement in some eukaryotic cells.

Cilia and flagella facilitate cell movement. They beat in coordinated waves for locomotion.
What is the primary function of the Golgi apparatus?

The Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins. It receives proteins from ER for further processing.
Identify the organelle that synthesizes ATP through photosynthesis.

Chloroplasts synthesize ATP during photosynthesis. Light reactions produce ATP and NADPH.
Which cellular structure is responsible for ribosome assembly?

The nucleolus is responsible for ribosome assembly. Site where rRNA and proteins combine into subunits.
What is the main function of peroxisomes?

Peroxisomes break down fatty acids and detoxify substances. They also neutralize hydrogen peroxide produced in metabolism.
What is the function of the nucleolus in the cell?

The nucleolus produces ribosomal subunits. It assembles large and small ribosomal subunits.
Identify the main function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum.

The rough ER synthesizes and processes proteins. Studded with ribosomes for protein modification.
What is the primary component of the cell membrane?

Phospholipids are the primary component of the cell membrane. Amphipathic molecules form bilayer with hydrophobic core.
What is the primary role of the cell wall in plant cells?

The cell wall provides protection and structural support. Rigid structure maintains plant shape and prevents bursting.
Which type of RNA is synthesized in the nucleolus?

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is synthesized in the nucleolus. The nucleolus assembles ribosomal subunits from rRNA.
Which structure provides structural support to plant cells?

The cell wall provides structural support. Made of cellulose, it prevents overexpansion.
What is the primary function of the vacuole in plant cells?

The vacuole stores nutrients and waste products. Large organelle maintains plant cell turgor pressure.
Which component of the cytoskeleton is involved in muscle contraction?

Actin filaments are involved in muscle contraction. Thin filaments interact with myosin for contraction.
Identify the component of the cell membrane that acts as a barrier to most water-soluble substances.

The phospholipid bilayer acts as a barrier. Hydrophobic tails prevent passage of polar molecules.
Which cell organelle is responsible for lipid synthesis?

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum synthesizes lipids. It lacks ribosomes and makes phospholipids and steroids.
What is the function of the cell membrane?

The cell membrane regulates the entry and exit of substances. Selective permeability maintains cellular homeostasis.
What is the main function of microtubules in the cell?

Microtubules maintain cell shape and facilitate transport. Hollow tubes provide tracks for organelle movement.
What role do chloroplasts play in plant cells?

Chloroplasts conduct photosynthesis. They convert light energy into chemical energy (glucose).
Which component of the cell membrane is involved in cell recognition?

Glycoproteins are involved in cell recognition. Carbohydrate markers identify cell type and function.
What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?

Ribosomes synthesize proteins. They translate mRNA into polypeptide chains.
Which organelle is known as the 'powerhouse of the cell'?

Mitochondria are known as the 'powerhouse of the cell'. They generate most cellular ATP through respiration.
Which organelle is primarily responsible for cellular respiration?

Mitochondria are responsible for cellular respiration. Glucose is broken down to produce ATP.
Which cellular structure is responsible for protein modification and sorting?

The Golgi apparatus modifies and sorts proteins. Processes proteins from ER before final destination.
Identify the organelle responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the cell.

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum detoxifies substances. It metabolizes drugs and breaks down toxic compounds.
What is the main structural difference between rough and smooth ER?

Rough ER has ribosomes; smooth ER does not. Ribosomes distinguish protein synthesis destinations.
What is the role of the cytoskeleton in a cell?

The cytoskeleton maintains cell shape and aids in movement. Network of protein fibers provides structural framework.
What function does the plasma membrane serve in cellular communication?

The plasma membrane contains receptors for signaling. Membrane proteins detect and bind signaling molecules.
What is the primary function of the nucleus in a eukaryotic cell?

The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material (DNA). It controls gene expression and DNA replication.
Which organelle contains hydrolytic enzymes for digestion?

Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes. These enzymes digest cellular waste and worn organelles.
Identify the organelle where the Krebs cycle occurs.

The Krebs cycle occurs in the mitochondria. Citric acid cycle occurs in the mitochondrial matrix.

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