PCAT Cell Biology Flashcards

Which organelle is the primary site of ATP production through cellular respiration?

Answer: Mitochondria

Mitochondria generate most of the cell's ATP through the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation in their inner membrane.

What is the primary function of the rough endoplasmic reticulum (rough ER)?

Answer: Protein synthesis and processing

The rough ER is studded with ribosomes and is responsible for synthesizing, folding, and processing proteins destined for secretion or membrane insertion.

Which cellular structure selectively controls the passage of substances into and out of the cell?

Answer: Plasma membrane

The plasma membrane is a selectively permeable phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that regulate what enters and exits the cell.

What type of cell division produces two genetically identical diploid daughter cells for growth and tissue repair?

Answer: Mitosis

Mitosis produces two identical daughter cells with the same chromosome number as the parent cell, used for somatic growth and repair.

Which organelle contains hydrolytic enzymes used to digest cellular waste, damaged organelles, and engulfed pathogens?

Answer: Lysosomes

Lysosomes contain acid hydrolases that break down macromolecules and cellular debris in an acidic interior maintained by proton pumps.

What term describes the passive movement of water across a semipermeable membrane toward the region of higher solute concentration?

Answer: Osmosis

Osmosis is driven by differences in water potential; water moves passively toward higher solute (lower water) concentration without energy input.