The Cell Unit – Anatomy & Physiology Notes | GNM 1st Year 5 Marks Questions | NursingNotesGNM

 The Cell Unit – Anatomy & Physiology | GNM 1st Year Nursing | 5 Marks Questions with Answers

By NursingNotesGNM | Updated for GNM Final Exam 2026

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Introduction

The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of the human body. Understanding the cell unit is essential for GNM 1st Year students as it forms the foundation of Anatomy and Physiology.

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Q1. Define a cell. Describe the structure of a typical animal cell. (5 Marks)

Answer:

Definition: A cell is the smallest structural and functional unit of the human body.

Structure of a Typical Animal Cell:

1. Cell Membrane – Outer protective covering; regulates entry and exit of substances.

2. Cytoplasm – Jelly-like substance where metabolic activities occur.

3. Nucleus – Control center of the cell; contains DNA.

4. Mitochondria – Powerhouse of the cell; produces ATP.

5. Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) – Helps in protein and lipid synthesis.

6. Golgi Apparatus – Packages and transports proteins.

7. Ribosomes – Responsible for protein synthesis.

8. Lysosomes – Digest waste materials.

Conclusion: All parts of the cell work together to maintain normal body function.

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Q2. Write the functions of the cell membrane. (5 Marks)

Answer:

The cell membrane is a thin, flexible outer boundary of the cell.

Functions:

1. Protects the cell and gives shape.

2. Selectively permeable – controls movement of substances.

3. Helps in cell communication.

4. Maintains homeostasis.

5. Supports transport through diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.

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Q3. Describe mitochondria with its functions. (5 Marks)

Answer:

Mitochondria are oval-shaped organelles present in the cytoplasm.

Structure:

• Outer membrane

• Inner folded membrane (Cristae)

• Matrix (inner fluid)

Functions:

1. Produces energy (ATP).

2. Regulates cellular metabolism.

3. Stores calcium ions.

4. Plays a role in apoptosis.

5. Essential for muscle and nerve activity.

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Q4. Explain mitosis. (5 Marks)

Answer:

Mitosis is the process of cell division in which one parent cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Stages of Mitosis:

1. Prophase – Chromosomes become visible.

2. Metaphase – Chromosomes align at the center.

3. Anaphase – Chromosomes separate.

4. Telophase – Two nuclei are formed.

5. Cytokinesis – Cytoplasm divides.

Importance:

• Growth of the body

• Repair of tissues

• Replacement of dead cells

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Q5. Differentiate between plant cell and animal cell. (5 Marks)

Feature	Plant Cell	Animal Cell
Cell Wall	Present	Absent
Chloroplast	Present	Absent
Shape	Regular	Irregular
Vacuole	Large	Small or absent
Centrioles	Absent	Present

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🧠 Quick One-Line Revision Points (Exam Booster)

• Cell = Basic unit of life

• Nucleus = Control center

• Mitochondria = Powerhouse

• Ribosome = Protein factory

• Lysosome = Digestive bag

• Mitosis = Growth

• Meiosis = Reproduction

• Human cell = Eukaryotic

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❓ FAQ Section (SEO Optimized for GNM Nursing Students)

1. What is the unit cell in anatomy and physiology?

The unit cell is the basic structural and functional unit of the human body responsible for all life activities.

2. Why is the cell important for GNM first year nursing?

Understanding cells helps nursing students learn about tissue formation, disease mechanisms, infection, immunity, and wound healing.

3. What are the main parts of a human cell?

The main parts are cell membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.

4. What is the function of mitochondria?

Mitochondria produce ATP, which is the energy source of the cell.

5. What is the difference between mitosis and meiosis?

Mitosis helps in growth and repair, while meiosis forms reproductive cells.

6. Is the human cell prokaryotic or eukaryotic?

Human cells are eukaryotic because they have a true nucleus.

Importance of Cell in Nursing Practice

• Helps understand disease processes
• Explains cancer (uncontrolled mitosis)
• Important in wound healing
• Essential in understanding infection and immunity