Question

question 10 of 10
in addition to the outer cell membrane, certain cells contain inner membranes
that surround the individual organelles. which of the following explains why
the presence of internal membranes affords these cells an advantage over
cells lacking such structures?

a. the presence of internal membranescauses cells to be larger,
decreasing the cells surface-area-to-volume ratio.

b. compartmentalization keeps different functions separated within
the cell:

c. the synthesis of cell components to support internal membranes
increases the cells energy expenditures.

d. proteins and other molecules can move more slowly between
organelles via a transport system than by diffusion.

Explanation:

• Option A: A larger cell with a decreased surface - area - to - volume ratio is a disadvantage as it reduces the efficiency of substance exchange.
• Option B: Compartmentalization (due to internal membranes) allows different chemical reactions and functions to occur simultaneously in separate compartments within the cell without interference. For example, in eukaryotic cells, the mitochondria (with its inner membrane) carry out cellular respiration, and the endoplasmic reticulum (with its membrane) is involved in protein and lipid synthesis.
• Option C: Increased energy expenditure is a cost, not an advantage.
• Option D: Transport systems in cells (which may be associated with internal membranes) usually allow for more regulated and often faster movement of molecules compared to simple diffusion in some cases (e.g., vesicle - mediated transport can be more directed than random diffusion), and slower movement is not an advantage.

Answer:

B. Compartmentalization keeps different functions separated within the cell.