2 Marks Q&A - THE CELL | GNM First Year | NursingNotesGNM

The Cell: Structure, Reproduction and Functions – Very Short Answer (2‑Mark) Questions

This post contains exam‑oriented Very Short Answer (2‑mark) questions from The Cell: Structure, Reproduction and Functions, specially prepared for GNM, BSc Nursing, ANM, Staff Nurse, NORCET, AIIMS and other nursing examinations. These questions are ideal for short‑note answers, viva voce, and quick revision.


Introduction

The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life. In nursing examinations, 2‑mark questions are commonly asked to assess students’ understanding of definitions, functions, and basic differences related to cell structure and reproduction. Practicing these questions helps in scoring full marks with brief, accurate answers.


Very Short Answer Questions (2‑Mark)

Section A: Basic Cell Biology

  1. Define a cell.
    Answer: A cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of life.

  2. What is cytology?
    Answer: Cytology is the branch of science that deals with the study of cells.

  3. State the cell theory.
    Answer: Cell theory states that all living organisms are made up of cells, the cell is the basic unit of life, and all cells arise from pre‑existing cells.

  4. Name the two main types of cells.
    Answer: Prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.

  5. Give two differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
    Answer: Prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, whereas eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus; membrane‑bound organelles are absent in prokaryotes but present in eukaryotes.


Section B: Plasma Membrane and Cytoplasm

  1. What is the plasma membrane?
    Answer: The plasma membrane is the thin, semi‑permeable outer covering of the cell.

  2. Mention two functions of the plasma membrane.
    Answer: It protects the cell and regulates the entry and exit of substances.

  3. What is meant by semi‑permeable membrane?
    Answer: A semi‑permeable membrane allows some substances to pass through while restricting others.

  4. What is cytoplasm?
    Answer: Cytoplasm is the jelly‑like substance present between the cell membrane and the nucleus.

  5. Name the two main components of cytoplasm.
    Answer: Cytosol and cell organelles.


Section C: Cell Organelles

  1. Why are mitochondria called the powerhouse of the cell?
    Answer: Because they produce energy in the form of ATP during cellular respiration.

  2. State the function of ribosomes.
    Answer: Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis.

  3. What is the function of endoplasmic reticulum?
    Answer: It helps in synthesis and transport of proteins and lipids.

  4. Mention two functions of Golgi apparatus.
    Answer: It modifies and packages proteins and helps in their transport.

  5. Why are lysosomes called suicide bags of the cell?
    Answer: Because they contain digestive enzymes that can destroy the cell when released.


Section D: Nucleus

  1. What is the nucleus?
    Answer: The nucleus is the control center of the cell containing genetic material.

  2. Name the components of the nucleus.
    Answer: Nuclear membrane, nucleoplasm, nucleolus, and chromatin.

  3. State the function of nucleolus.
    Answer: The nucleolus is involved in ribosome formation.

  4. What is chromatin?
    Answer: Chromatin is the thread‑like material in the nucleus that contains DNA.

  5. Why are mature RBCs without a nucleus?
    Answer: To provide more space for hemoglobin and efficient oxygen transport.


Section E: Cell Reproduction – Mitosis

  1. What is mitosis?
    Answer: Mitosis is the division of somatic cells resulting in two identical daughter cells.

  2. Name the stages of mitosis.
    Answer: Prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

  3. Mention two functions of mitosis.
    Answer: Growth of the body and repair of tissues.

  4. What is cytokinesis?
    Answer: Cytokinesis is the division of cytoplasm following nuclear division.

  5. Why is mitosis important for growth?
    Answer: It increases the number of cells required for growth and development.


Section F: Cell Reproduction – Meiosis

  1. What is meiosis?
    Answer: Meiosis is the division of germ cells producing four genetically different daughter cells.

  2. How is meiosis different from mitosis?
    Answer: Meiosis reduces chromosome number and produces four different cells, whereas mitosis produces two identical cells.

  3. What is crossing over?
    Answer: Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

  4. State the significance of meiosis.
    Answer: It helps in sexual reproduction and maintains chromosome number in species.

  5. In which stage does crossing over occur?
    Answer: Prophase I of meiosis.


Exam‑Oriented Key Points

  • Cell is the basic unit of life

  • Plasma membrane is semi‑permeable

  • Mitochondria produce ATP

  • Mitosis is for growth and repair

  • Meiosis is for reproduction


Conclusion

Practicing very short answer (2‑mark) questions on cell structure, reproduction, and functions helps nursing students gain confidence and accuracy in examinations. These questions are frequently asked and are easy‑scoring when written clearly and concisely.


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