Cellular organisation: Practice Questions

Which of the following sub-cellular structures is typically found in a mature plant cell but NOT in a typical animal cell?

I. Cell wall
II. Large central vacuole
III. Mitochondrion

An electron micrograph of a specialized mammalian cell, such as a hepatocyte (liver cell), reveals a vast network of tubular membranes throughout the cytoplasm, identified as the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER). The SER accounts for a significantly greater proportion of the cell's internal membrane system compared to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).

Which of the following specialized functions is most likely enhanced by the extensive presence of SER in this cell?

A research study involves treating secretory cells with a chemical that increases the proportion of saturated fatty acids in their plasma membranes, resulting in a marked reduction in membrane fluidity. Which of the following processes would be most immediately and severely inhibited in these cells?

A rapidly growing plant meristem cell is synthesizing and expanding its primary cell wall at a maximal rate. Which of the following statements most accurately reflects the expected structural and metabolic characteristics of this cell compared to a mature, non-dividing parenchyma cell?

A researcher identifies both \( 70S \) and \( 80S \) ribosomes within a single cell. Which of the following is the most likely identity of this cell and the correct explanation for the presence of both ribosome types?

Identify the complex carbohydrate that serves as the main structural component of the cell wall in plant cells.

The cell surface membrane of an aerobic bacterium performs a function analogous to the inner mitochondrial membrane of a eukaryotic cell like yeast.

Explain the specific structural feature of the bacterium's cellular organisation that necessitates this functional role and state one biological consequence related to their respective sizes.

Name the scientist who first used the term 'cell' to describe the tiny box-like structures he observed in a sample of cork.

The study of cellular organisation has been significantly shaped by the history of biology and the advancement of technology.

(a) Name the individual who first described "cells" in the 17th century while observing a thin slice of cork. (1 mark)

(b) State one advantage of using an electron microscope over a light microscope when examining the internal structure of a cell. (1 mark)

(c) Name two specific sub-cellular structures that can only be clearly identified using an electron microscope. (2 marks)