Cell Biology: Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

A comprehensive set of practice questions covering the structures, functions, and differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells based on lecture slides.

What are the etymological origins of the word prokaryote?

The word comes from "pro" meaning before and "karyon" meaning nucleus.

Approximately how many years ago did prokaryotes appear?

They appeared about $3.5$ billion years ago.

Where is DNA located in a prokaryotic cell since it lacks a nucleus?

The DNA is found in a region called the nucleoid.

What is the function of the capsule in a prokaryotic cell?

It serves as the outermost layer that protects the cell and helps bacteria avoid being destroyed by other cells.

What purpose does the cell wall serve in prokaryotic organisms?

It provides the cell with shape and rigidity.

In a prokaryotic cell, what structure controls the entry and exit of substances?

The plasma membrane.

What is the function of ribosomes in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

They are the site of protein synthesis.

What are pili and what is their function?

They are hair-like structures that help the cell attach to surfaces.

What are flagella used for in prokaryotic cells?

They are used for movement.

What are plasmids and what is their significance?

Plasmids are small circular DNA that can carry special traits such as antibiotic resistance.

What is the role of mesosomes in prokaryotes?

They help in cellular respiration.

By what process do prokaryotic cells reproduce?

Through binary fission.

What does the term eukaryotic mean based on its Greek roots?

It means "true nucleus," from "eu" meaning true and "karyon" meaning nucleus.

In which types of organisms are eukaryotic cells found?

They are found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

What are the primary functions of the nucleus in a eukaryotic cell?

It contains DNA and controls all cell activities.

What is the specific function of the nucleolus?

It produces ribosomes.

How is chromatin described in the lecture notes?

Chromatin is a genetic material or macromolecule comprising of DNA, RNA, and proteins which results in the formation of chromosomes.

Why is the mitochondria referred to as the powerhouse of the cell?

It produces energy (ATP) via aerobic cellular respiration.

What is the difference between the Rough and Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)?

Rough ER has ribosomes and is involved in protein production, while Smooth ER is involved in lipid production.

According to the notes, what are the roles of triglycerides and cholesterol?

Triglycerides transport and store energy, while cholesterol helps make hormones, take in fats/vitamins, and produces bile salts for fat digestion.

What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?

It modifies and packages proteins.

What is the role of lysosomes in the cell?

They break down waste materials.

What are the storage functions of a vacuole?

It stores water, nutrients, and waste.

What is a centrosome and what is its function?

It is an organelle in animal cells that acts as the microtubule-organizing centre and regulates the cell cycle.

Which two structures are listed as special structures found only in plant cells?

The cell wall (for structure and support) and chloroplasts (for photosynthesis).

What are the four key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells regarding nucleus, size, complexity, and organelles?

Prokaryotic cells have no nucleus, are small, simple, and have no membrane-bound organelles; eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, are large, complex, and have many organelles.