What is the function of ribosomes in a cell?
A. To produce energy for the cell
B. To store genetic information
C. To transport molecules within the cell
D. To synthesize proteins in the cell
Ribosomes are small, spherical structures found in all living cells, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. Their primary function is to synthesize proteins using the genetic information stored in the cell's DNA. Ribosomes are composed of two subunits, one large and one small, that come together during protein synthesis.
Ribosomes read the genetic information stored in mRNA (messenger RNA) and use this information to assemble amino acids in the correct order to form a protein. The ribosome moves along the mRNA, adding one amino acid at a time to the growing protein chain until it reaches the end of the mRNA and the protein is complete.
Proteins are essential for a wide variety of cellular functions, including catalyzing chemical reactions, providing structural support, and transporting molecules across cell membranes. Therefore, ribosomes play a critical role in the overall function and survival of a cell.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is D.
More Questions on TEAS 7 Science
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Q #1: Which of the following substances is excreted by the kidneys to regulate blood pressure?
A. renin
B. erythropoietin
C. calcitriol
D. urobilinogen
Answer Explanation
Renin is an enzyme that is produced by the kidneys and it acts to elevate blood pressure. When blood pressure falls, the kidneys secrete renin into the bloodstream ³.
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Q #2: During embryonic development, which of the following germ layers forms the nervous system?
A. Ectoderm
B. Endoderm
C. Mesoderm
D. Exoderm
Answer Explanation
The three germ layers that form during embryonic development are the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The ectoderm is the outermost layer, and it gives rise to the skin, hair, nails, and nervous system. The nervous system develops from a specialized region of the ectoderm called the neural plate, which invaginates to form the neural tube. The neural tube ultimately gives rise to the brain and spinal cord, which make up the central nervous system, as well as the peripheral nervous system. The endoderm gives rise to the lining of the digestive and respiratory tracts, while the mesoderm gives rise to the musculoskeletal system, circulatory system, and several other organs. The exoderm is not a germ layer and does not exist during embryonic development.
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Q #3: What is the name of the genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21?
A. Turner syndrome
B. Klinefelter syndrome
C. Down syndrome
D. Huntington's disease
Answer Explanation
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is also known as trisomy 21, because affected individuals have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the normal two.
The extra chromosome 21 in Down syndrome occurs due to a random error in cell division, which leads to the production of an abnormal gamete (egg or sperm) with an extra copy of the chromosome. When this gamete fuses with a normal gamete during fertilization, the resulting zygote has 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46, and develops into a fetus with Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is characterized by a range of physical and intellectual symptoms, including developmental delays, intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, heart defects, and increased risk of certain medical conditions such as leukemia and Alzheimer's disease. However, the severity and expression of these symptoms can vary widely among affected individuals.
