B1.2

Question 1

List the main structures you would expect to find in a typical animal cell.

Answer 1

List the main structures you would expect to find in a typical animal cell.

• Nucleus
  Cytoplasm
• Cell membrane
• Mitochondria
• Ribosomes

Question 2

What are the three extra features found in plant cells but not in animal cells?

Answer 2

• Cell wall
• Chloroplasts
• Permanent vacuole

Question 3

Describe the functions of the nucleus, cytoplasm, and cell membrane in animal cells.

Answer 3

• Nucleus: Controls all the activities of the cell and contains genetic material (chromosomes).
• Cytoplasm: A jelly-like substance where chemical reactions occur.
• Cell membrane: Controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

Question 4

Why are the nucleus and mitochondria important for cells?

Answer 4

One of 2 answers:
The nucleus contains the genetic material and instructions needed to build new cells.
The mitochondria perform aerobic respiration to release energy needed for the cell.

Question 5

What is the role of chloroplasts in plant cells?

Answer 5

Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy for photosynthesis to produce food for the plant.

Question 6

What is the purpose of a permanent vacuole in plant cells?

Answer 6

The permanent vacuole is filled with cell sap, which helps to keep the cell rigid and provides support to the plant.

Question 7

How do plant cells differ from animal cells in size and function?

Answer 7

Plant cells are often larger than animal cells, ranging from 10 to 100 μm in length. They also produce their own food through photosynthesis, which animal cells cannot do.

Question 8

Explain why not all plant cells have chloroplasts. Give examples of cells that do not contain chloroplasts.

Answer 8

Not all plant cells have chloroplasts because some cells, like root cells, are underground and do not photosynthesize.

Question 9

What is the main function of ribosomes in both animal and plant cells?

Answer 9

Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, making all the proteins needed in the cell.

Question 10

What features allow algal cells to photosynthesize like plant cells?

Answer 10

Algal cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts, similar to plant cells, enabling them to carry out photosynthesis.