Which term describes membrane-bound structures within a cell that perform specialized functions?

Which term describes membrane-bound structures within a cell that perform specialized functions?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Cytoplasm
• C. Organelles
• D. Ribosomes

Answer: (C)

Organelles are membrane-bound structures inside a cell that perform specific tasks. They act like tiny departments, each handling a specialized function to keep the cell alive. For instance, the nucleus stores the cell’s genetic material and directs activities; mitochondria generate the energy the cell needs; the Golgi apparatus processes and ships proteins; the endoplasmic reticulum helps make proteins and lipids. The nucleus is an example of an organelle, but the general term that covers all such structures is organelles. The cytoplasm is the fluid and dissolved substances inside the cell, not a membrane-bound structure, and ribosomes are protein factories that may float freely or attach to the endoplasmic reticulum but are not themselves membrane-bound. Therefore, the term that describes these membrane-bound, specialized structures is organelles.

Organelles are membrane-bound structures inside a cell that perform specific tasks. They act like tiny departments, each handling a specialized function to keep the cell alive. For instance, the nucleus stores the cell’s genetic material and directs activities; mitochondria generate the energy the cell needs; the Golgi apparatus processes and ships proteins; the endoplasmic reticulum helps make proteins and lipids. The nucleus is an example of an organelle, but the general term that covers all such structures is organelles. The cytoplasm is the fluid and dissolved substances inside the cell, not a membrane-bound structure, and ribosomes are protein factories that may float freely or attach to the endoplasmic reticulum but are not themselves membrane-bound. Therefore, the term that describes these membrane-bound, specialized structures is organelles.