Cell Organelles and Their Functions

What is the primary function of the nucleus in a cell?

• To produce energy

• To control cell activities and hold DNA

• To break down waste

• To transport proteins

Answer explanation

The nucleus is essential for controlling cell activities and storing DNA, which contains the genetic instructions for the cell. This makes it the primary control center, unlike the other options which describe different cellular functions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Which organelle is responsible for making ribosomes?

• Mitochondria

• Nucleolus

• Golgi Apparatus

• Lysosomes

Answer explanation

The nucleolus is the organelle responsible for producing ribosomes. It synthesizes ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and assembles it with proteins to form ribosomal subunits, which are essential for protein synthesis.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What role do mitochondria play in the cell?

• They act as the cell's transport system

• They provide energy for the cell

• They package and send proteins

• They store food and water

Answer explanation

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate ATP, the main energy currency, through cellular respiration. This energy is essential for various cellular functions, making 'They provide energy for the cell' the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What is the function of the cell membrane?

• To hold organelles in place

• To control what enters and exits the cell

• To make proteins

• To break down waste

Answer explanation

The cell membrane's primary function is to control what enters and exits the cell, maintaining homeostasis. It acts as a selective barrier, allowing essential substances in while keeping harmful ones out.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What is the cytoplasm's role in the cell?

• To produce ribosomes

• To fill the cell and hold organelles in place

• To provide energy

• To package proteins

Answer explanation

The cytoplasm fills the cell and provides a medium for organelles to remain suspended, facilitating cellular processes. It does not produce ribosomes, provide energy, or package proteins, making the correct choice about its role clear.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Which organelle is like a transport system in the cell?

• Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)

• Golgi Apparatus

• Lysosomes

• Vacuole

Answer explanation

The Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) functions as a transport system in the cell, facilitating the movement of proteins and other molecules throughout the cell. It is essential for both synthesis and transport.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What is the main function of ribosomes?

• To store food and water

• To make proteins

• To control cell activities

• To break down waste

Answer explanation

The main function of ribosomes is to make proteins. They are essential for translating genetic information into functional proteins, which are crucial for various cellular processes.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Which organelle is known as the cell's post office?

• Nucleus

• Mitochondria

• Golgi Apparatus

• Cytoplasm

Answer explanation

The Golgi Apparatus is often referred to as the cell's post office because it modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for delivery to their destinations, similar to how a post office processes and sends mail.

What is the primary function of lysosomes?

• To produce energy

• To break down waste

• To transport proteins

• To make ribosomes

Answer explanation

The primary function of lysosomes is to break down waste materials and cellular debris. They contain enzymes that digest these substances, making 'to break down waste' the correct answer.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What does the vacuole store in the cell?

• DNA

• Proteins

• Food, water, and other materials

• Ribosomes

Answer explanation

The vacuole primarily stores food, water, and other materials in the cell, making it essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and providing nutrients. Other options like DNA and ribosomes are stored in different cell structures.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2