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Difficulty: MediumCell Structure and Function

During cell growth and division, a eukaryotic cell regulates its metabolic processes using instructions stored in chromatin. Which organelle encloses this genetic material and functions as the primary control center of the cell?

  1. A
    Ribosome
  2. NucleusAnswer
  3. C
    Vacuole
  4. D
    Mitochondrion

Answer

The nucleus encloses the cell's genetic material (DNA in chromatin) and serves as the command center for cellular growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
The nucleus is the membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that encloses chromosomes composed of DNA and associated proteins (chromatin). It directs cellular metabolism, protein synthesis signaling, growth, and reproduction by regulating gene transcription.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the cellular requirements described in the stem.
The structure must enclose chromatin (DNA) and govern metabolic processes and cellular division.
Eukaryotic cells segregate their primary genetic material within a dedicated membrane-bound organelle.
2
Evaluate the specialized role of each candidate organelle.
Ribosomes synthesize proteins, vacuoles handle storage and turgor, mitochondria produce ATP, and the nucleus houses the genomic DNA.
Matching organelle functions distinguishes the control center from metabolic and storage compartments.
3
Select the organelle matching the control center function.
The nucleus is the definitive control center containing the genetic code.
The nucleus contains chromosomes/chromatin and controls gene expression required for cell function.

Key Concept

The eukaryotic nucleus serves as the repository for genetic information (DNA) and directs cellular activities.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Cell Structure and Function

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