which organelle is responsible for making proteins

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which organelle is responsible for making proteins?

A. Ribosome
B. Chloroplast
C. Lysosome
D. Mitochondrion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Ribosomes are the organelles responsible for protein synthesis within the cell. They are the sites where amino acids are linked together to form proteins based on the instructions carried by mRNA (messenger RNA). Ribosomes can be found free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, and they play a crucial role in translating genetic information into proteins. Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, lysosomes are involved in digestion and waste removal, and mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production through cellular respiration. Therefore, the ribosome is the correct organelle responsible for making proteins.

2. Which component of the cell contributes to the protection, communication, and passage of substances into and out of the cell?

A. Nucleus
B. Cell membrane
C. Endoplasmic reticulum
D. Cytoplasm

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the cell membrane. The cell membrane is responsible for protecting the cell, facilitating communication with the external environment, and regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell. The nucleus (Choice A) is the control center of the cell and houses the genetic material but is not primarily involved in these functions. The endoplasmic reticulum (Choice C) is involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism, not primarily in protection or communication. The cytoplasm (Choice D) is the gel-like substance that fills the cell but does not specifically contribute to protection, communication, or substance passage.

3. Why are bacteria and blue-green algae often classified together?

A. Both are gymnosperms.
B. Both are prokaryotes.
C. Both are autotrophs.
D. Both are pathogens.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bacteria and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are often classified together because they are both prokaryotes. Prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. This characteristic distinguishes them from eukaryotic organisms, which have these membrane-bound structures. Choice A is incorrect because gymnosperms are seed-producing plants with naked seeds, not bacteria or blue-green algae. Choice C is incorrect because being an autotroph (able to produce its own food) is not a reason for classifying them together. Choice D is incorrect because not all bacteria and blue-green algae are pathogens; many of them are beneficial or neutral to other organisms.

4. What type of cell is an animal cell?

A. Prokaryotic
B. Eukaryotic
C. Plant Cell
D. Bacterial Cell

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, eukaryotic. Animal cells are classified as eukaryotic cells because they contain membrane-bound organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum. Choice A, prokaryotic, is incorrect as prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles. Choice C, Plant Cell, is incorrect as the question specifically asks about animal cells. Choice D, Bacterial Cell, is incorrect as bacteria are prokaryotic cells.

5. Why does cytokinesis happen?

A. DNA can duplicate
B. Organelles can convert energy
C. Bacteria can be killed
D. Daughter cells can divide

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cytokinesis happens at the end of mitosis to physically separate the newly formed daughter cells. This allows the cell to divide into two separate daughter cells, each containing a complete set of genetic material (DNA) and organelles. The purpose of cytokinesis is to ensure that each daughter cell receives the necessary components to function independently. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because cytokinesis does not directly involve DNA duplication, organelles converting energy, or killing bacteria.