Cell Structure and Functions · CAPE Biology Unit 1
105 past-paper questions on Cell Structure and Functions, part of Cell and Molecular Biology, from every CAPE Biology Unit 1 paper on Quelpr.
- 1(a)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)Identify the structures labelled A to H.
- 1(a)(i)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(i)Identify the structures labelled A, B and C in Figure 1.
- 1(a)(i)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(i)On the figure, identify the structures labelled A, B, C and D.
- 1(a)(i)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(i)In the box below, make a detailed drawing of the cell in Figure 1 and label FOUR structures seen in the cell.
- 1(a)(ii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(ii)With reference to the structures labelled in Figure 1, which structure is present only in animal cells and NOT in plant cells?
- 1(a)(ii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(ii)The structure labelled A in Figure 1 is also present in some eukaryotic cells. State how the structure of A in prokaryotic cells differs when present in eukaryotic cells.
- 1(a)(ii)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(ii)Using the magnification provided, calculate the actual size of the cell, highlighted by the bar line at the left of the image. State the calculated value to the nearest micrometer. Show your working.
- 1(a)(iii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(iii)There are two types of eukaryotic cells, plant and animal. In which of these is the structure labelled A in Figure 1, NOT found?
- 1(a)(iii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(iii)In addition to the structures labelled in Figure 1, there are other structures that work together to make lipids available to the cell. Name TWO of these structures.
- 1(a)(iv)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(iv)Explain how the two structures named in (a)(iii) work together and make lipids available to the cell.
- 1(a)(iv)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(iv)Name the structure in a eukaryotic cell that serves the same function as the mesosomes of a prokaryotic cell.
- 1(a)(v)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(a)(v)Both eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells contain DNA. State ONE way in which the DNA in eukaryotic cells differs from the DNA in prokaryotic cells.
- 1(b)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)In the space provided, draw a plan diagram to show the distribution of the different types of tissues in Box A in Figure 1. Make your drawing the actual size of Box A. (No labels required).
- 1(b)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)Figure 2 is an electron micrograph of a mammalian liver cell.
- 1(b)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)Complete the table by writing the correct answers in the spaces provided.
- 1(b)(i)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)(i)Identify the organelles labelled I, II and III.
- 1(b)(ii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)(ii)If the actual size of the structure labelled Y is 1.5 µm, calculate the magnification of the electron micrograph in Figure 2.
- 1(b)(iii)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(b)(iii)Suggest a reason which may account for the extensive network of membranes seen in this type of animal cell.
- 1(c)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(c)If the photograph in Figure 1 has been magnified 100 times, what is the actual width of the specimen from X1 to X2?
- 1(c)(i)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(c)(i)Identify the organelles labelled A, B and C in Figure 1. A: B: C:
- 1(c)(ii)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(c)(ii)Calculate the actual maximum length of the organelle labelled X to the nearest micrometre (µm). Show your working.
- 1(d)(i)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(d)(i)Account for the difference in clarity between the two photographs.
- 1(d)(ii)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q1 1(d)(ii)Comment on the advantages and limitations of using a light microscope as compared to an electron microscope to examine cells or tissues.
- 2(b)(i)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q2 2(b)(i)Make a scaled drawing of the cells labelled D, E and F in Figure 3. Show the magnification of the drawing.
- 3(a)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(a)Complete Table 2 below to show which number on Figure 2 matches EACH kingdom indicated.
- 3(b)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(b)Using your knowledge of the distinguishing features of the kingdoms and clearly stating which features have been used, determine to which kingdom EACH of the cells in Figure 4 belongs.
- 3(b)(i)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(b)(i)For EACH kingdom, state the features used to discriminate between them. Prokaryotes from the other four kingdoms Feature
- 3(b)(ii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(b)(ii)Animals from plants Feature 1 Feature 2
- 3(b)(iii)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(b)(iii)Fungi from plants Feature 1 Feature 2
- 3(b)(iv)1 mark· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(b)(iv)Protoctists from the animal, plant and fungus kingdoms. Feature
- 3(c)5 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q3 3(c)In order to assist in identifying them, create a set of paired dichotomous keys. Use the space below to create the dichotomous keys.
- 4(a)10 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)Describe the structural features of a typical plant cell and point out the features of contrast shown in animal cells.
- 4(a)(i)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(i)Describe THREE structures which are common to a mitochondrion and a chloroplast.
- 4(a)(i)3 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(i)Explain what is meant by the term 'endosymbiosis' and how it relates to the origin of these organelles in eukaryotes.
- 4(a)(i)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(i)Describe TWO features of mitochondria and chloroplasts that support the theory that they have evolved from prokaryotic cells.
- 4(a)(i)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(i)Compare the cell size and THREE structural features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
- 4(a)(ii)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(ii)Discuss THREE lines of evidence in support of this theory.
- 4(a)(ii)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(ii)Define the term 'symbiosis'.
- 4(a)(ii)5 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(ii)Outline the endosymbiont theory for the origin of eukaryotic cells. Explain how characteristics of mitochondria and chloroplasts provide evidence in support of this theory.
- 4(a)(ii)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(ii)Discuss how a mitochondrion differs from a chloroplast with respect to their MAIN function in a cell.
- 4(a)(iii)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(a)(iii)Comment on evidence that supports the theory that a symbiotic relationship existed between eukaryotic cells and chloroplasts and mitochondria. Include in your answer the benefits that BOTH the eukaryotic cells and the…
- 4(b)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)Elaborate on the differences between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.
- 4(b)8 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)Discuss the role of FOUR tissues found in the roots of a plant that support the major functions of the root.
- 4(b)5 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)Explain, using the dicotyledonous root as an example, the difference between a 'tissue' and an 'organ'.
- 4(b)(i)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(i)Compare the membrane systems of the rough endoplasmic reticulum with Golgi membranes.
- 4(b)(i)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(i)Distinguish between the terms 'prokaryotic' and 'eukaryotic'.
- 4(b)(i)2 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(i)Define the terms 'tissue' and 'organ'.
- 4(b)(ii)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(ii)Compare the membrane systems of chloroplasts with mitochondria.
- 4(b)(ii)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(ii)Explain how prokaryotes and eukaryotes differ with respect to genetic material, protein synthesis and photosynthetic structures.
- 4(b)(ii)5 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(b)(ii)Use the dicotyledonous root to distinguish between the levels of organization found in tissues and organs.
- 4(c)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(c)Provide arguments in support of the endosymbiont theory.
- 4(c)(ii)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q4 4(c)(ii)Discuss the outcome of this deficiency on the function of mitochondrial ribosomes.
- 5(a)10 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q5 5(a)Describe the structure and function of EACH of the following: (i) Endoplasmic reticulum (ii) Golgi apparatus (iii) Nucleus (iv) Chloroplasts (v) Mitochondria
- 5(b)4 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q5 5(b)With reference to the resolving power of the light microscope, and the electron microscope, explain the use and importance of microscopes in biology.
- 5(c)6 marks· Biology · Unit 1 Q5 5(c)Clearly indicate if EACH structure in the list is an organ or a tissue. Give TWO reasons for EACH choice.
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1The following is an electron micrograph of a section of an animal cell. Which of the structures labelled I, II, III and IV is concerned with protein synthesis?
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1Which of the following is NOT a function of the Golgi apparatus?
- Q101 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1Which of the following combinations correctly identifies the phloem and xylem tissues?
- Q111 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1Which of the following cells is represented by the diagram below?
- Q201 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1One structure that may be observed in animal cells during mitosis but is NOT seen in plant cells is
- Q401 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1Consider the following kingdoms: Fungi, Prokaryotes, Plants, Protoctists Match EACH organism below with the kingdoms above.
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 (Specimen) · Paper 1Item 7 refers to the diagram below which shows the ultrastructure of a eukaryotic cell. Which of the following cell structures, labelled 1, 2, 3 and 4, is involved in the synthesis of lipids and steroids?
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 (Specimen) · Paper 1Item 8 refers to the following structures found in cells. I. Cell wall II. Cell Membrane III. Centrioles IV. Golgi Apparatus Which of the following combinations are features common to BOTH plant and animal cells?
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 (Specimen) · Paper 1All of the following characteristics are typical of prokaryotes EXCEPT
- Q101 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 (Specimen) · Paper 1Xylem can MOST accurately be described as a tissue because it
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2008 (Rest of Region) · Paper 1In microscopy, the term 'resolution' is used to describe the
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2008 (Rest of Region) · Paper 1Item 8 refers to the diagram below which shows the structure of a generalised plant cell. Which of the following options correctly indicates the organelles that contain DNA?
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2008 (Rest of Region) · Paper 1The organelles involved in the manufacture, modification and transport of lipases, respectively are
- Q111 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2008 (Rest of Region) · Paper 1Item 11 refers to the diagram below which shows a transverse section of a plant structure. The area labelled X represents
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2009 · Paper 1In the chloroplast, light energy is trapped in the
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2009 · Paper 1The area labelled X represents
- Q61 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2010 · Paper 1In chronic rheumatoid arthritis, cartilage of joints is thought to be digested by hydrolytic enzymes found in the
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2010 · Paper 1In microscopy, the term 'resolution' is used to describe the
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2010 · Paper 1When viewed with the aid of an electron microscope, the cells in a specimen were found to have closely packed mitochondria with cristae that were very close together. It is likely that the MAIN function of these cells is
- Q121 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2010 · Paper 1A scientist who wanted to identify the tissue that transports the products of photosynthesis, exposed the plant to radioactive carbon dioxide. After some time a section was cut through the root of the plant and it was…
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2011 · Paper 1Items 7 - 8 refer to the diagram below representing the structure of an animal cell as seen under an electron microscope. The structure labelled X is an important site for the
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2011 · Paper 1Which of the following structures, present in this cell, would NOT be seen in a bacterial cell?
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2011 · Paper 1In microscopy, the term 'resolution' is used to describe the
- Q101 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2011 · Paper 1Which of the following are characteristics of prokaryotic cells? I. DNA is not associated with histone protein. II. Ribosomes are small (70 S type). III. Cellulose cell wall is present. IV. Cells are typically 5 - 10…
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2012 · Paper 1Which of the following structures, present in this cell, would NOT be seen in a bacterial cell?
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2012 · Paper 1The area labelled X represents
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2013 · Paper 1A student's plan drawing of the TS of a dicotyledonous stem seen under low power is shown below.
The actual diameter of the stem is
10\text{ mm}. What is the magnification of the drawing? - Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2013 · Paper 1Which of the following is NOT likely to be seen in an electron micrograph of a plant cell?
- Q101 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2013 · Paper 1Which of the following are characteristics of prokaryotic cells? I. DNA is not associated with histone protein. II. Ribosomes are small (70 S type). III. Cellulose cell wall is present. IV. Cells are typically 5–10…
- Q151 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2013 · Paper 1According to the endosymbiotic theory, organelles such as chloroplasts and mitochondria may have evolved from prokaryotic organisms. Which of the following is NOT a line of evidence in support of this theory?
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2014 · Paper 1Item 8 refers to the following diagram showing a chloroplast. Which of the following is true about the thylakoid?
- Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2014 · Paper 1Which of the following is NOT likely to be seen in an electron micrograph of a plant cell?
- Q101 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2014 · Paper 1Which structure is found in BOTH a prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell?
- Q71 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2015 · Paper 1Which of the following is NOT likely to be seen in an electron micrograph of a plant cell?
- Q81 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2015 · Paper 1The actual diameter of the stem is
10\text{ mm}. What is the magnification of the drawing? - Q91 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2015 · Paper 1Which of the following combinations correctly identifies structures typical of a eukaryotic cell?
- Q151 mark · multiple choice· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2015 · Paper 1According to the endosymbiotic theory, organelles such as chloroplasts and mitochondria may have evolved from prokaryotic organisms. Which of the following is NOT a line of evidence in support of this theory?
- 1(a)(i)3 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2019 · Paper 2Construct a tissue diagram from the light micrograph of the plant section in Figure 1.
- 1(a)(ii)5 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2019 · Paper 2Provide annotations to describe EACH labelled structure, A–E in Figure 1.
- 1(a)8 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2021 · Paper 2Construct an annotated diagram of the E. coli bacterium from Figure 1 in the space provided, showing the magnification of the diagram.
- 1(b)(i)3 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2021 · Paper 2List three similarities between a typical animal cell and a typical plant cell.
- 1(b)(ii)4 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2021 · Paper 2Outline the function of any two structures found only in plant cells.
- 1(a)(i)5 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2022 · Paper 2In the space provided, construct a plan diagram to show at least the FOUR major tissues labelled W, X, Y and Z in the light micrograph in Figure 1.
- 1(a)(ii)4 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2022 · Paper 2State the function of the structures labelled W, X, Y and Z in Figure 1 on page 4.
- 1(a)(iii)3 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2022 · Paper 2Explain why the dicotyledonous root of a plant is considered an organ.
- 1(b)(i)2 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2022 · Paper 2Outline the basis of the endosymbiont theory.
- 1(b)(ii)4 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2022 · Paper 2Complete the table by indicating whether the following features are present, absent or sometimes present in a eukaryotic cell and a prokaryotic cell: Plasmid, Mitochondria, Nuclear envelope, Ribosome.
- 1(b)(i)3 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2026 · Paper 2Identify the THREE components labelled L, M, and N on Cell I.
- 1(b)(ii)4 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2026 · Paper 2Outline how any TWO visible features of the eukaryotic cells shown in Figure 3 support the endosymbiont theory.
- 1(b)(iii)2 marks· CAPE Biology Unit 1 · May/June 2026 · Paper 2State the function of any ONE named cellular component which is visible in ALL three cells.