Question

white blood cells have a very different structure from red blood cells. white blood cells help fight infections by absorbing pathogens and creating proteins that defend against new pathogens. what organelles must be present in white blood cells to fight infections?
a. white blood cells have cell walls that absorb pathogens.
b. white blood cells have chloroplasts to produce energy needed.
c. white blood cells have a ribosomes that produce proteins which defend against new pathogens.
d. white blood cells cannot have organelles because they are prokaryotic.

Explanation:

• Option A: White blood cells are animal cells and do not have cell walls. Cell walls are a characteristic of plant cells, fungi, and some prokaryotes.
• Option B: Chloroplasts are found in plant cells (for photosynthesis) and some protists. White blood cells are animal cells and do not have chloroplasts.
• Option C: Ribosomes are organelles that synthesize proteins. White blood cells produce antibodies (a type of protein) and other proteins involved in immune responses. So, ribosomes are essential for their function of defending against pathogens.
• Option D: White blood cells are eukaryotic cells (have a nucleus and membrane - bound organelles). Prokaryotic cells are simpler cells without a nucleus (e.g., bacteria).

Answer:

C. White blood cells have ribosomes that produce proteins which defend against new pathogens.