CLEP Biology Molecular & Cellular Biology

Question 1

What is the primary function of ribosomes in a cell?

Accepted Answer

Protein synthesis

Answer

Ribosomes are cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis, a process also known as translation. They read the genetic information encoded in messenger RNA (mRNA) and use it to assemble amino acids into specific protein sequences. This function is vital for all cellular activities, as proteins perform a vast array of roles within the cell.

Question 2

Which organelle is involved in cellular respiration?

Accepted Answer

Mitochondrion

Answer

Mitochondria are often referred to as the 'powerhouses' of the cell because they are the primary sites of cellular respiration. During this process, glucose and other fuel molecules are broken down to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of the cell.

Question 3

What is the function of the plasma membrane?

Accepted Answer

Regulate transport

Answer

The plasma membrane, a selectively permeable barrier, primarily functions to regulate the transport of substances into and out of the cell. It controls which molecules can pass through, maintaining the cell's internal environment and allowing for communication with its surroundings.

Question 4

Which macromolecule serves as the genetic material in most organisms?

Accepted Answer

DNA

Answer

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the macromolecule that serves as the genetic material in most organisms. It carries the hereditary instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses.

Question 5

Which type of RNA carries amino acids to the ribosome?

Accepted Answer

tRNA

Answer

Transfer RNA (tRNA) is a type of RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis by carrying specific amino acids to the ribosome. Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon that base-pairs with a complementary codon on the messenger RNA (mRNA), ensuring the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.

CLEP Practice Test

CLEP Practice Test

CLEP Biology Molecular & Cellular Biology