Question

review the function of each organelle before answering the questions below. you may use your notes as a resource. 1. how does the nucleus work with ribosomes? 2. how does the endoplasmic reticulum work with the golgi apparatus? 3. how does the nucleus work with lysosomes (which are filled with enzymes; enzymes are made of protein)? 4. what might happen to a cell if its mitochondria were removed? \it would die\ is not an acceptable answer. explain! 5. what might happen to a cell if it had no plasma membrane (cell membrane)? \it would die\ is not an acceptable answer. explain! 6. how are microtubules and microfilaments different? 7. what might happen to a cell if it had no lysosomes? \it would die\ is not an acceptable answer. explain! 8. is any given organelle more important than another? or are they all equally important? explain.

Explanation:

1. The nucleus contains DNA which has the genetic code for proteins. It transcribes mRNA which is then transported to ribosomes where protein - synthesis occurs.
2. The endoplasmic reticulum synthesizes and folds proteins and lipids. These are then transported in vesicles to the Golgi apparatus which modifies, sorts, and packages them for secretion or use within the cell.
3. The nucleus codes for the enzymes found in lysosomes. It transcribes the genes for these enzymes which are then synthesized in the cytoplasm and transported to the lysosomes.
4. Mitochondria are the power - houses of the cell, producing ATP through cellular respiration. Without mitochondria, the cell would lack a major energy source and would not be able to perform energy - requiring processes like active transport, protein synthesis, etc.
5. The plasma membrane regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintains cell shape, and protects the cell. Without it, the cell's internal environment would be disrupted, and it would not be able to maintain homeostasis.
6. Microtubules are larger, hollow structures made of tubulin proteins and are involved in cell division, intracellular transport, and maintaining cell shape. Microfilaments are smaller, solid structures made of actin and are involved in muscle contraction, cell movement, and cytoplasmic streaming.
7. Lysosomes contain digestive enzymes that break down waste materials, damaged organelles, and pathogens. Without lysosomes, waste would accumulate in the cell, and the cell would not be able to recycle nutrients or defend against invaders effectively.
8. All organelles are important in their own right as they perform different but essential functions for the cell's survival and proper functioning. For example, the nucleus controls genetic information, mitochondria produce energy, and ribosomes synthesize proteins. However, some processes might be more immediately critical in certain situations, but overall, they are all interdependent and necessary for the cell.

Answer:

1. The nucleus transcribes mRNA for ribosomal protein - synthesis.
2. ER synthesizes and transports materials to the Golgi for modification and packaging.
3. The nucleus codes for lysosomal enzymes.
4. The cell would lack a major energy source for vital processes.
5. The cell's internal environment would be disrupted, and homeostasis would be lost.
6. Microtubules are larger, hollow, and involved in cell division; microfilaments are smaller, solid, and involved in cell movement.
7. Waste would accumulate, and nutrient recycling and defense would be impaired.
8. All organelles are important as they have interdependent essential functions for cell survival.