Which of the following features are displayed by all cells under a microscope?
- AOption (a)
Only plasma membrane and nucleus
- BOption (b)
Only nucleus and cytoplasm
- COption (c)
Plasma membrane, nucleus and cytoplasm
- DOption (d)
Only plasma membrane and cytoplasm
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Correct answer
Only plasma membrane and cytoplasm
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Only plasma membrane and cytoplasm.
Key Points
- The cell is the fundamental structural and functional unit of all living organisms. While cells vary significantly in shape and size, they share core components visible under a microscope.
- The plasma membrane is the outermost selective boundary of the cell. It is present in every living cell, acting as a gatekeeper to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. Hence, this feature is displayed by all cells.
- The cytoplasm is the semi-fluid, jelly-like matrix that fills the interior of the cell. It serves as the primary site for metabolic reactions and contains various organelles and molecular building blocks. Hence, this feature is displayed by all cells.
- The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle containing genetic material (DNA). However, it is only present in eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells (such as bacteria) lack a defined nuclear membrane, and their genetic material is found in a region called the nucleoid.
- Because prokaryotes do not possess a true nucleus, it cannot be a feature displayed by all cells under a microscope. Therefore, only the plasma membrane and cytoplasm are universally present across all cell types. Hence, the statement regarding only plasma membrane and cytoplasm is correct.
Additional Information
- Prokaryotic Cells:
- These cells are generally small, ranging from 1 to 10 µm.
- They lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, lysosomes, or Golgi bodies.
- Examples include Bacteria, Archaea, and Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).
- Eukaryotic Cells:
- These cells are larger, typically 10 to 100 µm in size.
- They possess a well-defined nucleus and complex membrane-bound organelles.
- Examples include Plant cells, Animal cells, Fungi, and Protists.
- Plasma Membrane Composition:
- It is primarily composed of lipids (mostly phospholipids) and proteins.
- It exhibits selective permeability, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis within the cell.
- Genetic Material:
- While a nucleus is not universal, DNA or genetic material is a universal requirement for life, though its packaging varies between the nucleoid (prokaryotes) and nucleus (eukaryotes).
Important Points
- Cell Theory: This theory was formulated by M.J. Schleiden and Theodore Schwann in the 1830s. It states that all living things are composed of cells and that the cell is the basic unit of life.
- Modern Cell Theory: Rudolf Virchow expanded the theory in 1855 by stating "Omnis cellula e cellula," meaning all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
- Microscopy: To observe these features, biologists often use staining agents. For example, Methylene Blue is commonly used to stain animal cells to make the nucleus and plasma membrane more visible, while Safranin is used for plant tissues.
- Exceptions: Viruses are considered non-cellular or acellular entities because they do not have a plasma membrane or cytoplasm of their own, existing instead as genetic material encased in a protein coat.