Cell Organelles and Their Functions

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

Which organelle is often referred to as the "control center" of the cell?

• Nucleolus

• Mitochondria

• Nucleus

• Golgi Apparatus

Answer explanation

The nucleus is often referred to as the "control center" of the cell because it houses the cell's genetic material and regulates gene expression, thus controlling cellular activities.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

What is the role of the Golgi apparatus in the cell?

• To produce ribosomes

• To package and send proteins

• To control cell activities

• To provide energy

Answer explanation

The Golgi apparatus is essential for modifying, packaging, and distributing proteins synthesized in the cell. It processes these proteins and sends them to their appropriate destinations, making 'to package and send proteins' the correct choice.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

Which organelle is like a recycling center for the cell?

• Nucleolus

• Ribosomes

• Lysosomes

• Vacuole

Answer explanation

Lysosomes are the organelles responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris, acting like a recycling center for the cell. They contain enzymes that digest unwanted substances, making them essential for cellular maintenance.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

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

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 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

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

NGSS.MS-LS3-1

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

Which part of the cell is described as "gooey" and holds organelles in place?

• Cytoplasm

• Cell Membrane

• Endoplasmic Reticulum

• Lysosomes

Answer explanation

The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance within the cell that holds organelles in place, providing a medium for biochemical reactions. It is often described as 'gooey' due to its viscous nature.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-2