Question 1

Which scientist is credited with the discovery of the first living cell?

Accepted Answer

Anton van Leeuwenhoek. Anton van Leeuwenhoek observed living cells like bacteria and protozoa using his improved microscope. While Robert Hooke discovered cells in cork, they were actually dead cell walls. Leeuwenhoek is often called the Father of Microbiology for his early work.

Question 2

Which organelle is known as the 'Suicidal Bag' of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Lysosome. Lysosomes are called suicidal bags because they contain digestive enzymes that can destroy the cell itself if it is damaged. These enzymes help in breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. Christian de Duve discovered this organelle in the mid-20th century.

Question 3

What is the primary component of the plant cell wall?

Accepted Answer

Cellulose. Cellulose provides structural strength and rigidity to the plant cell. It is a complex carbohydrate that humans cannot digest easily. Fungal cell walls, in contrast, are primarily made of chitin.

Question 4

In the Five Kingdom classification system, which kingdom includes organisms like Amoeba and Paramecium?

Accepted Answer

Protista. Kingdom Protista consists of unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Robert Whittaker proposed the five-kingdom system to better organize biological diversity. These organisms usually live in aquatic environments.

Question 5

Which organelle is responsible for the synthesis of proteins within the cell?

Accepted Answer

Ribosome. Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis and are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They can be found floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum. They are often described as the cell's protein factories.

Biology Basics — Set 1