what is the main function of the endoplasmic reticulum er in the cell

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 practice test science

1. What is the main function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the cell?

A. To synthesize and transport proteins and lipids
B. To package and transport proteins
C. To break down macromolecules
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes within the cell that plays a crucial role in protein and lipid synthesis. It consists of two types: rough ER, which is studded with ribosomes and involved in protein synthesis, and smooth ER, which is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification. The ER's main function is to synthesize proteins and lipids, not just package and transport them. While the ER is involved in transporting these synthesized proteins and lipids to other parts of the cell or outside the cell, its primary role is in their synthesis. Breaking down macromolecules is primarily the function of lysosomes, which are membrane-bound organelles containing enzymes for digestion. Storing genetic material is the function of the nucleus, which houses the cell's DNA. The ER is not involved in storing genetic material.

2. Which of the following is NOT a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection?

A. Mutations in genes
B. Differential survival and reproduction based on traits
C. Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out)
D. Competition for resources in an environment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Mutations in genes can introduce new genetic variations into a population, which can be acted upon by natural selection. B) Differential survival and reproduction based on traits is a key component of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics, also known as Lamarckism, is not a mechanism of evolution by natural selection. Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (such as strong muscles from working out) are not passed on to offspring. D) Competition for resources in an environment can drive natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that help them better compete for limited resources. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out), as it is not a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection.

3. When you push a book across a table, the book experiences an equal and opposite force from the table. Why doesn't the table move as well?

A. The table is much heavier than the book.
B. The force on the book acts in a different direction.
C. The table has a much larger surface area, distributing the force over a wider area.
D. All of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The table is much heavier than the book, so it requires a much larger force to accelerate it. The book is lighter and easier to move, so the force applied to it causes it to move without significantly affecting the table due to the table's greater mass. Newton's third law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In this case, the force exerted on the book by the table is countered by an equal force exerted on the table by the book, but the table's greater mass resists movement. Choice B is incorrect because the forces are equal and opposite, acting in the same direction. Choice C is incorrect as the surface area does not affect the movement of the table in this scenario. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as the table's greater mass prevents it from moving easily when a force is applied.

4. Which type of energy is associated with the random motion of particles in a substance?

A. Potential energy
B. Mechanical energy
C. Thermal energy
D. Chemical energy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Thermal energy is the correct answer as it is associated with the random motion of particles in a substance. When particles move randomly, they generate heat energy, which is a form of thermal energy. Potential energy is stored energy that can be converted into other forms when released, such as kinetic energy. Mechanical energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energy in an object, which is not directly related to the random motion of particles. Chemical energy is energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds and is not specifically related to the motion of particles.

5. Which type of reaction is represented by the equation A + B → AB?

A. Synthesis
B. Decomposition
C. Single Replacement
D. Double Replacement

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Synthesis.' In a synthesis reaction, two or more reactants combine to form a single product. The equation A + B → AB represents a synthesis reaction where substances A and B combine to form compound AB. Choice B, 'Decomposition,' involves a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances, which is not the case in this equation. Choices C and D, 'Single Replacement' and 'Double Replacement,' involve the replacement of elements in compounds or the exchange of ions between compounds, neither of which is depicted in the given equation. Thus, 'Synthesis' is the most suitable classification for the reaction A + B → AB.