MISA - Maryland Integrated Science Assessment Cellular Structure and Function Questions and Answers

Question 1

A student observes a cell under a microscope and notes the presence of a cell wall, ribosomes, and a circular loop of DNA not enclosed in a nucleus.
Which of the following is the most likely classification for this cell?

Accepted Answer

A prokaryotic cell

Answer

A plant cell

Answer

An animal cell

Answer

A fungal cell

Question 2

A new drug is developed that specifically targets and disables the mitochondria within a cell. What essential cellular process would be most directly inhibited by this drug?

Accepted Answer

Cellular respiration

Answer

Protein synthesis

Answer

Photosynthesis

Answer

DNA replication

Question 3

In multicellular organisms, cells differentiate to perform specific jobs. Which statement best explains how different cell types, like muscle cells and nerve cells, develop from a single fertilized egg?

Accepted Answer

Different genes are activated or expressed in each cell type.

Answer

Each cell type contains different genes.

Answer

Cells acquire different genes as they divide and migrate.

Answer

Random mutations cause cells to develop into different types.

Question 4

A scientist is studying the hierarchical organization of a complex mammal. Which of the following lists correctly represents a level of organization from simplest to most complex?

Accepted Answer

Cell -> Tissue -> Organ -> Organ system

Answer

Organ system -> Tissue -> Organ -> Cell

Answer

Cell -> Organ -> Tissue -> Organ system

Answer

Organ -> Tissue -> Organ system -> Cell

Question 5

A person engages in strenuous exercise, causing their body temperature to rise. In response, they begin to sweat, which cools the body as it evaporates. This scenario is an example of a cell or organism maintaining what state?

Accepted Answer

Homeostasis

Answer

Metabolism

Answer

Differentiation

Answer

Respiration

Question 6

Which of the following correctly describes the function of the cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

It controls the passage of substances into and out of the cell.

Answer

It acts as a rigid, protective layer that gives the cell a fixed shape.

Answer

It is the site of protein synthesis and modification.

Answer

It contains the cell's genetic material and controls its activities.