Middle School Biology Unit 1

Question 1

What is the basic unit of life?

Answer 1

Cell

Cells are the fundamental building blocks of all living organisms.

Question 2

What structure surrounds the cell and controls what enters and exits?

Answer 2

Cell membrane

The cell membrane is also known as the plasma membrane.

Question 3

What is the jelly-like substance inside the cell called?

Answer 3

Cytoplasm

Cytoplasm contains organelles and is the site for many metabolic processes.

Question 4

Which organelle is known as the powerhouse of the cell?

Answer 4

Mitochondria

Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration.

Question 5

What organelle contains enzymes for digestion within the cell?

Answer 5

Lysosome

Lysosomes break down waste materials and cellular debris.

Question 6

True or False: The nucleus is the control center of the cell.

Answer 6

True

The nucleus houses the cell’s genetic material and regulates gene expression.

Question 7

Name the organelle involved in energy production.

Answer 7

Mitochondria

Mitochondria convert biochemical energy from nutrients into ATP.

Question 8

Fill in the blank: The _______ provides structural support and protection to plant cells.

Answer 8

Cell wall

The cell wall is made primarily of cellulose in plants.

Question 9

What is the primary function of chloroplasts?

Answer 9

Photosynthesis

Chloroplasts convert sunlight into chemical energy in plant cells.

Question 10

What is the function of the cytoskeleton?

Answer 10

Maintaining cell shape and facilitating movement

The cytoskeleton is composed of microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.

Question 11

True or False: All cells have a nucleus.

Answer 11

False

Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus; their genetic material is not membrane-bound.