HSC Biology — Module 1
Organelles — Flashcards & Quiz
Organelles are the specialised subcellular structures that carry out the metabolic work of eukaryotic cells, and HSC Biology Module 1 expects you to link each organelle's structure to its function. Examiners routinely test the endomembrane system (ER → Golgi → vesicles) and energy organelles (mitochondria, chloroplasts), so build a mental map of what each one makes, where it sits, and how it cooperates with its neighbours.
Sample Flashcards
Q1: What is the function of the mitochondria?
Mitochondria are the site of aerobic cellular respiration, where glucose is broken down to produce ATP (energy) for the cell.
Q2: What is the function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?
Rough ER (studded with ribosomes) synthesises and transports proteins. Smooth ER synthesises lipids and detoxifies chemicals.
Q3: What is the role of the Golgi apparatus?
The Golgi apparatus modifies, packages and sorts proteins and lipids received from the ER into vesicles for transport to their destination (secretion, membrane or lysosomes).
Q4: What are lysosomes and what do they do?
Lysosomes are membrane-bound vesicles containing hydrolytic (digestive) enzymes that break down waste materials, worn-out organelles and ingested pathogens.
Q5: What is the function of ribosomes?
Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis (translation). They read mRNA and assemble amino acids into polypeptide chains.
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: Mitochondria are found in both plant and animal cells.
Answer: TRUE
Both plant and animal cells carry out aerobic respiration and therefore contain mitochondria.
Q2: The rough endoplasmic reticulum synthesises lipids.
Answer: FALSE
The rough ER synthesises proteins (ribosomes on its surface translate mRNA). The smooth ER synthesises lipids.
Q3: The Golgi apparatus modifies, packages and sorts proteins for transport.
Answer: TRUE
The Golgi apparatus receives proteins from the ER, modifies them (e.g. adding carbohydrate chains), packages them into vesicles, and directs them to their destination.
Related Concepts
Last updated: March 2026 · 6 flashcards · 5 quiz questions