Q2W2 HWK Cell Specialization

Which types of organisms can be unicellular?

• Only Prokaryotes

• Only Eukaryotes

• Both Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

• Only animals

Answer explanation

Both prokaryotes (like bacteria) and eukaryotes (like yeast and some protists) can be unicellular organisms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Both Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes'.

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What does it mean when a unicellular organism is described as "colonial"?

• It lives alone and is highly specialized

• It lives in groups or is attached to others but has few specialized structures

• It forms complex tissues and organs

• It cannot survive independently

Answer explanation

When a unicellular organism is described as "colonial", it means it lives in groups or is attached to others, often lacking specialized structures. This distinguishes it from more complex organisms that form tissues and organs.

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NGSS.MS-LS1-1

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of colonial organisms?

• They live in groups

• They are attached to one another

• They have many specialized structures

• They have few specialized structures

Answer explanation

Colonial organisms typically have few specialized structures, as they function as a collective unit. The presence of many specialized structures is more characteristic of individual organisms, not colonies.

Why are some unicellular organisms like protists considered colonial?

• Because they are always multicellular

• Because they live in groups with few specialized structures

• Because they cannot perform life functions

• Because they are only found in water

Answer explanation

Some unicellular organisms like protists are considered colonial because they live in groups with few specialized structures, allowing them to function together while still being individual cells.

Which of the following statements is true about the cells of multicellular organisms?

• They can live on their own.

• They do not live on their own.

• They are always prokaryotes.

• They do not have specialized roles.

Answer explanation

In multicellular organisms, cells rely on each other for survival and function, meaning they do not live independently. This distinguishes them from unicellular organisms, which can survive on their own.

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What is cell specialization?

• When all cells perform the same function.

• When each type of cell has a separate role within the organism.

• When cells divide rapidly.

• When cells lose their nuclei.

Answer explanation

Cell specialization refers to the process where different types of cells perform distinct functions within an organism, allowing for greater efficiency and complexity in biological systems.

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Which type of organisms are multicellular organisms classified as?

• Prokaryotes

• Viruses

• Eukaryotes

• Bacteria

Answer explanation

Multicellular organisms are classified as eukaryotes because they have complex cells with a nucleus and organelles, unlike prokaryotes, which are unicellular and lack a nucleus. Viruses and bacteria do not fit this classification.

Why is cell specialization important in multicellular organisms?

• It allows all cells to perform the same function.

• It enables different cells to perform different roles, supporting the organism’s survival.

• It causes cells to become identical.

• It prevents gene expression.

Answer explanation

Cell specialization is crucial in multicellular organisms because it allows different cells to take on specific roles, enhancing efficiency and supporting the overall survival of the organism.

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What is the main characteristic of stem cells?

• They can differentiate into many different cell types.

• They only produce one type of cell.

• They cannot divide.

• They have no DNA.

Answer explanation

The main characteristic of stem cells is their ability to differentiate into many different cell types, allowing them to develop into various tissues and organs, which is crucial for growth and repair.

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NGSS.HS-LS1-4

Which of the following is the main function of red blood cells?

• Protecting the body against infectious disease

• Carrying oxygen throughout the body

• Producing hormones

• Digesting food

Answer explanation

The main function of red blood cells is carrying oxygen throughout the body. They contain hemoglobin, which binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to tissues, making this the correct choice.