Answer Key: Cell - Chapter 1
Section A: Objective Type Questions (10 Marks)
1. Fill in the blanks (1 mark each)
a) Cell
b) Mitochondria
c) Cell wall
d) Mitosis
e) Cytoplasm
2. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) (2 marks each)
a) (iii) All cells contain chloroplasts.
Explanation: Not all cells contain chloroplasts. Only plant cells have chloroplasts, which
are responsible for photosynthesis.
b) (iii) Chloroplast
Explanation: Chloroplasts are found in plant cells, but not in animal cells. Animal cells
have mitochondria, which serve the energy production function.
3. Match the following (2 marks)
a) Mitochondria - ii) Powerhouse of the cell
b) Ribosomes - iii) Site of protein synthesis
c) Endoplasmic Reticulum - i) Transport proteins
d) Nucleus - iv) Controls the activities of the cell
Section B: Short Answer Questions (10 Marks)
1. Difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (2 marks)
o Prokaryotic cells: These are simple cells without a defined nucleus. Genetic
material is free in the cytoplasm. They are typically unicellular organisms (e.g.,
bacteria).
o Eukaryotic cells: These are complex cells with a membrane-bound nucleus and
other membrane-bound organelles. They can be unicellular or multicellular
organisms (e.g., plants, animals, fungi).
2. Cell membrane: Structure and function (2 marks)
o Structure: The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with
embedded proteins, cholesterol, and carbohydrates.
o Function: It regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, provides
protection and support, and facilitates communication with other cells.
3. Function of the cytoplasm (2 marks)
o The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance within the cell where the organelles are
suspended. It helps in the transport of materials, supports the organelles, and plays
a role in chemical reactions and metabolism within the cell.
4. Differences between plant and animal cells (2 marks)
o Plant cells: Have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and large central vacuoles.
o Animal cells: Lack a cell wall and chloroplasts, and have small vacuoles.
o Plant cells have a fixed shape due to the cell wall, while animal cells have a
flexible shape.
5. Structure and function of the nucleus (2 marks)
o Structure: The nucleus is membrane-bound and contains the cell's genetic
material (DNA). It has a nuclear membrane with nuclear pores.
o Function: The nucleus controls the cell's activities, including growth,
metabolism, and reproduction, by regulating gene expression.
Section C: Long Answer Questions (20 Marks)
1. Structure and functions of mitochondria and chloroplasts (5 marks)
o Mitochondria:
Structure: Mitochondria are oval-shaped organelles with a double
membrane. The inner membrane is folded into cristae.
Function: Known as the "powerhouse of the cell," mitochondria are
responsible for energy production through aerobic respiration. They
produce ATP, which the cell uses for energy.
o Chloroplasts:
Structure: Chloroplasts are oval-shaped organelles with a double
membrane and contain chlorophyll (a green pigment).
Function: Chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis. They convert light
energy into chemical energy, which is stored in glucose molecules.
2. Process of cell division: Stages of mitosis (5 marks)
o Mitosis: Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two identical daughter
cells.
Prophase: Chromosomes become visible, and the nuclear membrane
starts to break down.
Metaphase: Chromosomes line up at the cell's equator.
Anaphase: Sister chromatids are pulled to opposite poles of the cell.
Telophase: Nuclear membranes form around the two sets of
chromosomes, which begin to uncoil.
Cytokinesis: The cytoplasm divides, and two daughter cells are formed.
3. Significance of the cell theory (5 marks)
o The Cell Theory states that:
1. All living organisms are composed of cells.
2. The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in living organisms.
3. All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
o Significance: The theory revolutionized the understanding of biology, providing a
foundation for all subsequent studies of cell biology, genetics, and life sciences. It
emphasizes that life processes occur within cells, and cellular functions are
essential for the survival of organisms.
4. Structure and function of the cell wall and its difference from the cell membrane (5
marks)
o Structure of Cell Wall: The cell wall is a rigid, outer layer made of cellulose in
plant cells. It provides structural support and protection.
o Function: The cell wall maintains the shape of the cell, protects it from physical
damage, and prevents excessive water intake.
o Difference from Cell Membrane: The cell membrane is flexible and semi-
permeable, controlling the movement of materials into and out of the cell. In
contrast, the cell wall is rigid and provides structural integrity. The cell membrane
is found in both plant and animal cells, while the cell wall is only found in plant
cells, fungi, and some bacteria.