MATTER IN OUR SURROUNDINGS

MCQ

1. Which of the following is not a characteristic of particles of matter?

A. They have spaces between them B. They are stationary

C. They are constantly moving D. They attract each other
Answer: B

2. The conversion of a solid directly into vapour is known as:

A. Condensation B. Fusion
C. Sublimation D. Evaporation
Answer: C

3. The boiling point of water on the Celsius scale is:

A. 0°C B. 50°C
C. 100°C D. 212°C
Answer: C

4. Which state of matter has a definite shape and volume?

A. Solid B. Liquid
C. Gas D. Plasma
Answer: A

5. Which of the following processes causes a gas to change into a liquid?

A. Evaporation B. Sublimation
C. Condensation D. Freezing
Answer: C

6. The temperature at which a solid changes into a liquid is known as its:

A. Boiling point B. Freezing point

C. Melting point D. Condensation point
Answer: C

7. Which of the following will increase the rate of evaporation?

A. Decrease in surface area B. Increase in humidity
C. Increase in temperature D. Decrease in wind speed
Answer: C

8. Which of the following states of matter is highly compressible?

A. Solid B. Liquid
C. Gas D. None
Answer: C

9. The process of changing a gas to a solid directly is called:

A. Sublimation B. Freezing
C. Deposition D. Condensation
Answer: C

10. Which factor affects the state of matter?

A. Temperature only B. Pressure only

C. Both temperature and pressure D. Neither temperature nor pressure
Answer: C

11. Which of the following is a physical change?

A. Burning of paper B. Boiling of water

C. Rusting of iron D. Cooking of food
Answer: B

12. Which of the following substances undergoes sublimation?

A. Sugar B. Ice
C. Camphor D. Salt
Answer: C

13. In which state of matter are particles packed the closest together?

A. Solid B. Liquid
C. Gas D. Plasma
Answer: A

14. The SI unit of temperature is:

A. Celsius B. Kelvin
C. Fahrenheit D. Joule
Answer: B

15. Which of the following is not a state of matter?

A. Solid B. Liquid
C. Energy D. Gas
Answer: C

16. Evaporation causes:

A. Cooling B. Heating
C. No change in temperature D. Condensation
Answer: A

17. Matter is made up of:

A. Atoms only B. Molecules only

C. Particles D. Only solids
Answer: C

18. The latent heat of fusion is the heat energy required to:

A. Change a liquid to solid B. Change a solid to liquid without changing temperature

C. Raise the temperature of a solid D. Convert gas to liquid

Answer: B

19. Which of these will show maximum expansion on heating?

A. Solid B. Liquid
C. Gas D. All expand equally
Answer: C

20. Which phenomenon causes water to dry from wet clothes?

A. Boiling B. Condensation
C. Sublimation D. Evaporation
Answer: D

Assertion-Reason type questions

Instructions:
Each of the following questions consists of two statements — an Assertion (A) and a Reason (R).
Answer the questions using the following options:

 A. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.

 B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

 C. A is true, but R is false.

 D. A is false, but R is true.

1.Assertion (A): Particles of matter have space between them.

Reason (R): Liquids can be compressed easily.
Answer: C

2.Assertion (A): Solids have a definite shape and volume.

Reason (R): The particles in solids are tightly packed and have strong intermolecular forces.
Answer: A

3.Assertion (A): Gases do not have a fixed shape or volume.

Reason (R): The particles in gases are loosely packed and move freely in all directions.
Answer: A

4.Assertion (A): Evaporation causes cooling.

Reason (R): During evaporation, particles absorb heat energy from the surroundings to overcome
the forces of attraction.
Answer: A

5. Assertion (A): Liquids have a definite volume but not a definite shape.
Reason (R): The particles in liquids are closely packed but can move past each other.
Answer: A

6.Assertion (A): Increasing pressure can change the state of matter.

Reason (R): Pressure affects the kinetic energy of particles.
Answer: B

7.Assertion (A): Sublimation is a process where a solid directly changes into gas.
Reason (R): Only liquids can evaporate.
Answer: C
8.Assertion (A): Water at 0°C can exist in both solid and liquid state.
Reason (R): 0°C is the freezing point as well as melting point of water.
Answer: A

9.Assertion (A): Boiling is a surface phenomenon while evaporation is a bulk phenomenon.

Reason (R): Boiling occurs throughout the liquid at a fixed temperature.
Answer: D

10.Assertion (A): Temperature and pressure affect the state of a substance.

Reason (R): These factors change the kinetic energy of the particles.
Answer: A

Very Short Answer Questions (2 marks each) with answers in the 30–50 words range:

1.

Q: What is diffusion? Give one example.

A: Diffusion is the movement of particles from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower
concentration. An example is the spreading of perfume in a room, where the scent gradually fills the
entire space.

2.

Q: Why do solids have a fixed shape but gases do not?

A: Solids have tightly packed particles with strong intermolecular forces, giving them a fixed shape.
Gases have loosely packed particles with weak forces, allowing them to move freely and take the
shape and volume of their container.

3.

Q: What is sublimation? Give one example.

A: Sublimation is the process in which a solid changes directly into gas without becoming liquid. For
example, camphor or naphthalene balls gradually disappear when left in open air due to
sublimation.

4.

Q: Define melting point. What is the melting point of ice?

A: Melting point is the temperature at which a solid changes into a liquid at atmospheric pressure.
The melting point of ice is 0°C (273.15 K).

5.
Q: Why do liquids flow but solids do not?
A: Liquids have particles that are loosely packed and can slide over each other, allowing them to
flow. Solids have rigidly packed particles, which restrict movement and prevent them from flowing.

6.

Q: Why does a desert cooler cool better on a hot, dry day?

A: On a hot, dry day, the rate of evaporation increases because the air has low humidity. This results
in more cooling as evaporation takes heat from the surrounding air, making desert coolers more
effective.

7.

Q: What happens to the temperature of a substance during a change of state?

A: During a change of state, the temperature of a substance remains constant. The heat supplied is
used to overcome the forces of attraction between particles, not to increase temperature.

8.

Q: Why is ice at 0°C more effective in cooling than water at 0°C?

A: Ice at 0°C absorbs extra latent heat during melting without changing temperature. This extra
energy is drawn from the surroundings, resulting in more cooling compared to water at the same
temperature.

9.

Q: What is latent heat of vaporization?

A: It is the amount of heat required to convert 1 kg of a liquid into vapour at its boiling point without
a change in temperature. For water, this is 22.5 × 10⁵ J/kg.

10.

Q: How does pressure affect the boiling point of a liquid?

A: Increasing pressure raises the boiling point of a liquid because more energy is required for
particles to overcome the increased atmospheric pressure and change into the gaseous state.

Short Answer Type Questions (3 marks each) with answers in the 50 to 80 words range:

1.

Q: Explain why gases can be compressed but solids cannot.

A: In gases, the particles are far apart and have weak intermolecular forces. When pressure is
applied, the particles can be brought closer together, making gases highly compressible. In solids,
the particles are tightly packed with strong forces, leaving almost no space to compress, so solids
cannot be compressed.

2.

Q: How does evaporation cause cooling? Give an example.

A: During evaporation, the particles with the highest kinetic energy escape first, taking heat energy
from the surface, thereby lowering the temperature of the remaining particles. For example, when
sweat evaporates from our skin, it absorbs body heat and cools us down.

3.

Q: Describe an activity to show that air has mass.

A: Take two inflated balloons and tie them to the ends of a balance. The balance remains level. Now
burst one balloon. The side with the remaining balloon goes down, showing that the air inside the
balloon had mass and contributed to the weight.

4.

Q: State the conditions under which a gas can be liquefied.

A: A gas can be liquefied by increasing pressure and decreasing temperature. Lowering temperature
reduces the kinetic energy of gas particles, and increasing pressure forces them closer, allowing
intermolecular attractions to turn the gas into a liquid.

5.

Q: Explain the three states of matter on the basis of particle arrangement.

A: In solids, particles are tightly packed in a fixed structure with minimal movement. In liquids,
particles are close but can slide past each other, allowing flow. In gases, particles are far apart and
move freely and randomly due to very weak intermolecular forces.

6.

Q: Why does water remain at 100°C while boiling, even though heat is continuously supplied?
A: When water boils at 100°C, the added heat is used to overcome the forces of attraction between
water molecules, not to raise the temperature. This heat is called the latent heat of vaporization and
allows the liquid to change into vapour without a temperature change.

7.

Q: Write three factors that affect the rate of evaporation.

A: The rate of evaporation increases with:

1. Increase in temperature (more kinetic energy).

 2. Increase in surface area (more particles can escape).

3. Decrease in humidity (more room for vapour in air).

Wind speed also increases evaporation by removing water vapour from the surface.

8.

Q: What is meant by interconversion of states of matter? Give examples.

A: Interconversion of states of matter is the change of one state into another by changing
temperature or pressure. For example, ice melts into water (solid to liquid), water boils into steam
(liquid to gas), and water vapour condenses into water (gas to liquid).

9.

Q: Why do naphthalene balls disappear with time without leaving any residue?
A: Naphthalene undergoes sublimation, meaning it changes directly from solid to gas without
passing through the liquid state. Due to this, naphthalene balls gradually disappear when left in the
open, especially at room temperature, leaving no residue behind.

10.

Q: Differentiate between evaporation and boiling.

A:

 Evaporation occurs at all temperatures and only at the surface of a liquid.

 Boiling occurs at a specific temperature (boiling point) and involves the entire liquid mass.
Evaporation is a slow and natural process, while boiling is rapid and requires continuous
heat.

Long Answer Type Questions (5 marks each) with answers in the 80 to 120 words range:

1.

Q: Explain the characteristics of the three states of matter in detail.

A:
Solids have fixed shape and volume, strong intermolecular forces, and particles that vibrate in fixed
positions.
Liquids have a definite volume but no fixed shape. The particles are less tightly packed than solids
and can slide over one another, allowing flow.
Gases have neither fixed shape nor volume. Their particles are far apart, move freely, and have
negligible intermolecular forces. Gases are highly compressible and expand to fill the container. The
differences arise due to variations in the arrangement, movement, and energy of particles in each
state.
2.

Q: Describe the effect of temperature and pressure on the states of matter with suitable examples.
A:
Temperature increases the kinetic energy of particles, which can change the state. For example,
heating ice melts it into water. Further heating converts water to steam.
Pressure compresses particles closer, which can convert gases into liquids. For instance, liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) is stored under high pressure to keep it in liquid form. Solid carbon dioxide (dry
ice) sublimes directly to gas due to pressure drop. Thus, temperature and pressure are crucial in
interchanging states of matter.

3.

Q: What is latent heat? Explain its types with examples.

A:
Latent heat is the heat energy absorbed or released during a change of state without changing
temperature.

 Latent heat of fusion is the heat required to convert 1 kg of solid to liquid at its melting
point. For ice, it is 3.34 × 10⁵ J/kg.

 Latent heat of vaporization is the heat required to convert 1 kg of liquid to vapour at boiling
point. For water, it is 22.5 × 10⁵ J/kg.
These heats are used to overcome intermolecular forces during phase changes.

4.

Q: Differentiate between evaporation and boiling. What factors affect the rate of evaporation?
A:
Evaporation occurs at all temperatures, only at the surface, and is a slow process. Boiling occurs at a
fixed temperature and involves the whole liquid.
Factors affecting evaporation:

1. Temperature: Higher temperature increases particle energy.

2. Surface Area: Larger area allows more particles to escape.

3. Humidity: Lower humidity increases evaporation.

4. Wind Speed: Wind removes vapour, increasing the rate.

For example, clothes dry faster on windy, sunny days due to higher temperature and airflow.

5.

Q: Define boiling point and melting point. How can these be changed?
A:
Melting point is the temperature at which a solid changes to liquid (0°C for ice). Boiling point is
when a liquid changes to gas (100°C for water at 1 atm pressure).
Both depend on atmospheric pressure.
  Increase in pressure raises the boiling point and lowers melting point.

 Decrease in pressure lowers boiling point and raises melting point.

For instance, at high altitudes (low pressure), water boils below 100°C, so cooking takes
longer. In a pressure cooker, food cooks faster due to higher boiling point.

6.

Q: Explain the process of interconversion of states of matter with examples.

A:
Matter can change from one state to another by altering temperature or pressure.

 Solid to liquid: Melting (ice to water)

 Liquid to gas: Boiling (water to steam)

 Gas to liquid: Condensation (steam to water)

 Liquid to solid: Freezing (water to ice)

 Solid to gas: Sublimation (camphor, dry ice)

 Gas to solid: Deposition

These processes are physical changes and reversible. Heat energy plays a major role in
overcoming or strengthening intermolecular forces during such transitions.

7.

Q: Describe how the kinetic theory of matter explains the properties of solids, liquids, and gases.
A:
The kinetic theory states that matter is made up of tiny particles that are always in motion.

 In solids, particles vibrate in fixed positions due to strong forces, making them rigid and
incompressible.

 In liquids, particles move more freely, allowing them to flow but stay close enough to
maintain volume.

 In gases, particles move randomly at high speed with weak forces, giving them no fixed
shape or volume.
The kinetic energy increases from solids to gases, explaining differences in behavior and
properties of the three states.

8.

Q: Why is ice at 0°C more effective in cooling than water at 0°C?

A:
Ice at 0°C has latent heat of fusion. When it melts, it absorbs 3.34 × 10⁵ J/kg of heat energy without a
rise in temperature. This energy is taken from the surroundings, causing cooling. Water at 0°C,
having already melted, doesn’t absorb this latent heat. Thus, ice at 0°C removes more heat from the
surroundings than the same mass of water at 0°C, making it more effective for cooling.

9.

Q: What are the main postulates of the particle nature of matter? Explain how these help in
understanding physical changes.
A:
Main postulates:

1. Matter is made of particles.

2. Particles are very small and have space between them.

3. They are in constant motion.

4. They attract each other.

These postulates help explain changes of state. For example, heating increases particle
motion, weakening attractions and causing melting or boiling. Compressibility of gases is due
to large spaces between particles. Diffusion occurs due to particle motion. Thus, particle
theory explains various observable properties.

10.

Q: Why does the temperature of a substance remain constant during a change of state? Explain with
an example.
A:
During a change of state, the heat energy supplied is used to overcome intermolecular forces, not to
raise the temperature. This is known as latent heat.
For example, when ice melts at 0°C, it absorbs latent heat of fusion to convert into water, but its
temperature remains constant until all ice has melted. Similarly, water boils at 100°C, absorbing
latent heat of vaporization without any rise in temperature during the phase change.

source-based/case-based units of assessment (each carrying 4 marks) with sub-parts Each case
includes a passage followed by 3–4 questions.

Case Study 1:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

During summer, we often sprinkle water on the rooftop or open grounds in the evening. This helps
cool down the surrounding air and surface. This effect is due to the process of evaporation, where
water absorbs heat from the surface and surrounding air to change into vapour.

Questions:

1. What is the phenomenon responsible for cooling in this case?

 2. Why does evaporation cause cooling?

3. Name two factors that increase the rate of evaporation.

4. Why do we feel cool when sweat evaporates from our body?

Case Study 2:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

In a chemistry lab, Rani observed that when camphor was left in an open petri dish, it slowly
disappeared without turning into a liquid. Her teacher explained that this is a case of sublimation.

Questions:

1. What is sublimation?

2. Write two other substances that undergo sublimation.

3. How is sublimation different from melting?

4. Is sublimation a physical or chemical change? Justify.

Case Study 3:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

Water boils at 100°C at sea level, but it boils at a lower temperature at high altitudes like in hill
stations. This change occurs due to variations in atmospheric pressure.

Questions:

1. How does atmospheric pressure affect the boiling point of water?

2. Why is cooking food difficult at higher altitudes?

3. What device is used to solve this problem, and how does it help?

4. What is the boiling point of water at standard atmospheric pressure?

Case Study 4:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

When a person enters an air-conditioned room from outside, their spectacles fog up. This happens
because the water vapour in the air condenses on the cold surface of the glass.

Questions:

1. Which change of state is observed here?

2. Define condensation.

3. What causes condensation to occur on the spectacles?

 4. Is condensation a physical or chemical change? Why?

Case Study 5:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

While making tea, Ravi noticed steam rising from the boiling kettle. He placed a metal plate over the
mouth of the kettle and later observed water droplets on its surface.

Questions:

1. Name the two changes of state observed in the passage.

2. What is the process of changing water to steam called?

3. What is the process of steam turning back to water called?

4. Why did droplets form on the plate?

Case Study 6:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

In winters, we can see our breath as a misty cloud. This happens when the warm moist air from our
lungs meets the cold outside air.

Questions:

1. What physical process causes the breath to appear like mist?

2. Why is this phenomenon visible only in winter?

3. Is this change reversible? Explain.

4. Which state change is involved here?

Case Study 7:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

A balloon filled with air bursts when squeezed too much. However, a similar squeeze on a rubber
ball filled with water does not make it burst easily.

Questions:

1. Which property of gases allows them to be easily compressed?

2. Why do liquids not compress easily?

3. What does this reveal about the arrangement of particles in gases and liquids?

4. Which state of matter has the highest compressibility?

Case Study 8:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

At room temperature, a bottle of perfume spreads its fragrance across the room, even though it is
not shaken or sprayed.

Questions:

1. What process is responsible for the spreading of perfume?

2. Why does diffusion occur faster in gases than in liquids?

3. What does this suggest about the motion of gas particles?

4. How does temperature affect the rate of diffusion?

Case Study 9:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

During an experiment, a student heated a beaker containing ice. He recorded the temperature at
regular intervals and observed that the temperature remained at 0°C for several minutes even
though heating continued.

Questions:

1. Why did the temperature remain constant during melting?

2. What is the energy absorbed called during this process?

3. What change in state occurs here?

4. What happens to the kinetic energy of particles during this process?

Case Study 10:

Read the passage and answer the following questions:

A solid block of dry ice is kept at room temperature. It gradually disappears, forming a gas. No liquid
is formed in the process.

Questions:

1. What is the scientific name of dry ice?

2. Which process is demonstrated here?

3. Why does dry ice not form a liquid?

4. Mention one practical use of dry ice.

"The Fundamental Unit of Life

Multiple Choice Questions

1. The basic structural and functional unit of life is:

A) Tissue B) Organ
C) Cell D) Organism
Answer: C) Cell

2. Who discovered the cell in 1665?

A) Robert Brown B) Anton van Leeuwenhoek

C) Matthias Schleiden D) Robert Hooke
Answer: D) Robert Hooke

3. Which of the following is not found in an animal cell?

A) Nucleus B) Mitochondria
C) Chloroplast D) Cell membrane
Answer: C) Chloroplast

4. Which organelle is known as the ‘powerhouse of the cell’?

A) Nucleus B) Endoplasmic reticulum

C) Golgi apparatus D) Mitochondria
Answer: D) Mitochondria

5. The jelly-like substance present between the cell membrane and the nucleus is called:

A) Cytoplasm B) Nucleoplasm
C) Protoplasm D) Cell sap
Answer: A) Cytoplasm

6. Cell wall is made up of:

A) Protein B) Cellulose
C) Lipid D) Chitin
Answer: B) Cellulose

7. Which of these is present only in plant cells and not in animal cells?
A) Ribosome B) Cell membrane
C) Mitochondria D) Cell wall
Answer: D) Cell wall

8. Which organelle is responsible for photosynthesis?

A) Mitochondria B) Golgi bodies

C) Chloroplast D) Lysosomes
Answer: C) Chloroplast

9. The fluid present inside the nucleus is:

A) Cytoplasm B) Nucleoplasm
C) Protoplasm D) Cell sap
Answer: B) Nucleoplasm

10. Which of the following is a single membrane-bound organelle?

A) Nucleus B) Mitochondria
C) Lysosome D) Ribosome
Answer: C) Lysosome

11. Which part of the cell is selectively permeable?

A) Cell wall B) Nucleus

C) Cell membrane D) Cytoplasm
Answer: C) Cell membrane

12. Which cell organelle is called the ‘suicidal bag’ of the cell?

A) Golgi apparatus B) Lysosome

C) Ribosome D) Endoplasmic reticulum
Answer: B) Lysosome

13. Which of the following controls all the activities of a cell?

A) Cytoplasm B) Ribosome
C) Mitochondria D) Nucleus
Answer: D) Nucleus

14. Which structure regulates the movement of materials into and out of the cell?
A) Cytoplasm B) Nucleus
C) Cell membrane D) Ribosome
Answer: C) Cell membrane

15. Plant vacuoles are:

A) Small and numerous B) Absent

C) Large and central D) Medium and scattered
Answer: C) Large and central

16. The term 'protoplasm' refers to:

A) Nucleus only B) Cytoplasm only

C) Cytoplasm + Nucleus D) Cell wall + Cytoplasm
Answer: C) Cytoplasm + Nucleus

17. Which of the following organelles is involved in packaging and transport of proteins?

A) Mitochondria B) Golgi apparatus

C) Ribosome D) Lysosome
Answer: B) Golgi apparatus

18. Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis?

A) Lysosome B) Golgi body

C) Ribosome D) Nucleolus
Answer: C) Ribosome

19. Which of the following statements is true for diffusion?

A) Requires energy B) Movement against concentration gradient

C) Involves carrier proteins D) Movement from higher to lower concentration
Answer: D) Movement from higher to lower concentration

20. Plasmolysis occurs when a cell is placed in a:

A) Hypotonic solution B) Hypertonic solution

C) Isotonic solution D) Pure water
Answer: B) Hypertonic solution
Assertion-Reason Based Questions

A: Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

 B: Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of
Assertion.

 C: Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

 D: Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

Q1. Assertion: Cell wall is present in plant cells but not in animal cells.
Reason: Cell wall provides rigidity and protection to the plant cell.
Answer: A

Q2.Assertion: Nucleus is known as the control center of the cell.

Reason: Nucleus helps in protein synthesis.
Answer: B

Q3.Assertion: Mitochondria are called the powerhouse of the cell.

Reason: Mitochondria perform photosynthesis in cells.
Answer: C

Q4.Assertion: Lysosomes are known as suicidal bags of the cell.

Reason: They contain digestive enzymes that can break down the entire cell during damage.
Answer: A

Q5.Assertion: Ribosomes are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Reason: Ribosomes help in synthesis of DNA.
Answer: C

Q6.Assertion: Vacuoles in plant cells are generally larger than in animal cells.
Reason: Vacuoles store food, water, and wastes in plant cells.
Answer: A

Q7.Assertion: Plasma membrane is called selectively permeable.

Reason: It allows only proteins to pass through it.
Answer: C
Q8.Assertion: Chloroplasts are found in plant cells.
Reason: Chloroplasts help in respiration in plant cells.
Answer: C

Q9.Assertion: Endoplasmic Reticulum helps in intracellular transport.

Reason: ER forms a network of channels for material movement within the cell.
Answer: A

Q10.Assertion: Golgi apparatus is involved in packaging and transport.

Reason: Golgi apparatus synthesizes genetic material.
Answer: C

Very Short Answer Questions (2 marks each) Each answer is within the 30–50 words range.

Q1. What is the function of the plasma membrane in a cell?

Answer:
The plasma membrane controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It is selectively
permeable, allowing only certain substances to pass through, thereby maintaining the internal
environment of the cell.

Q2. Why is the cell called the structural and functional unit of life?

Answer:
All living organisms are made up of cells. They carry out essential life processes like respiration,
digestion, and excretion. Therefore, cells form the basic structure and perform all vital functions,
making them the structural and functional units of life.

Q3. State the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Answer:
Prokaryotic cells do not have a well-defined nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, e.g., bacteria.
Eukaryotic cells have a distinct nucleus and organelles like mitochondria and ER, e.g., plant and
animal cells.

Q4. What is the function of the nucleus in a cell?

Answer:
The nucleus controls all the activities of the cell. It contains genetic material (DNA) and is responsible
for inheritance, cell division, and directing protein synthesis.

Q5. What are ribosomes? Where are they located in the cell?
Answer:
Ribosomes are small organelles that help in protein synthesis. They can either float freely in the
cytoplasm or be attached to the surface of the rough endoplasmic reticulum.

Q6. What is plasmolysis?

Answer:
Plasmolysis is the shrinkage of the cytoplasm of a plant cell when placed in a hypertonic solution.
Water moves out of the cell, causing the plasma membrane to pull away from the cell wall.

Q7. Give two functions of the Golgi apparatus.

Answer:
The Golgi apparatus modifies, packages, and transports proteins and lipids. It also forms lysosomes
and plays a role in the secretion of substances out of the cell.

Q8. Mention any two differences between plant and animal cells.

Answer:
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts, while animal cells do not. Plant cells have large central
vacuoles, whereas animal cells have small or no vacuoles.

Q9. What are lysosomes? Why are they called suicidal bags?

Answer:
Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes. They are called suicidal
bags because they can digest the entire cell if it is damaged or dying.

Q10. What is the function of mitochondria in a cell?

Answer:
Mitochondria generate energy through cellular respiration. They are known as the “powerhouses of
the cell” because they produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Short Answer Type Questions (carrying 3 marks each, answer range 50–80 words)

Q1. Explain the structure and function of the plasma membrane.

Answer:
The plasma membrane is a thin, flexible layer made up of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins. It
is selectively permeable and controls the entry and exit of substances in the cell. It maintains the
cell’s internal environment and enables communication with other cells. It also facilitates processes
like osmosis and diffusion.
Q2. Differentiate between plant and animal cells (any three points).

Answer:

1. Cell wall: Present in plant cells; absent in animal cells.

2. Chloroplasts: Present in plant cells for photosynthesis; absent in animal cells.

3. Vacuoles: Large and central in plant cells; small and scattered or absent in animal cells.
These differences are mainly due to the distinct functions plant and animal cells perform.

Q3. What is osmosis? Describe an experiment to show osmosis in plant cells.

Answer:
Osmosis is the movement of water molecules from a region of higher water concentration to a
region of lower concentration through a semi-permeable membrane.
Experiment: Place a peeled raisin in water. It swells due to water entering by osmosis. If placed in a
concentrated sugar solution, it shrinks as water moves out.

Q4. What are plastids? Name the types and their functions.

Answer:
Plastids are double membrane-bound organelles found in plant cells.
Types:

1. Chloroplasts: Carry out photosynthesis.

2. Chromoplasts: Provide color to fruits and flowers.

3. Leucoplasts: Store starch, oils, and proteins.

Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll and are the most important plastids.

Q5. Why are mitochondria called the powerhouses of the cell?

Answer:
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell because they generate energy in the form of
ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) during cellular respiration. They have a double membrane, with the
inner membrane folded into cristae to increase surface area for energy production. This ATP is used
for various cell activities.

Q6. What are chromosomes? What are they made of?

Answer:
Chromosomes are thread-like structures present in the nucleus. They carry genetic information from
one generation to the next. Each chromosome is made up of DNA and proteins. DNA carries the
instructions for traits and cell functions. Humans have 46 chromosomes (23 pairs) in each body cell.
Q7. What is the role of endoplasmic reticulum in the cell?

Answer:
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes within the cytoplasm.

 Rough ER has ribosomes and helps in protein synthesis and transport.

 Smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification of drugs.

It helps in intracellular transport and contributes to membrane biogenesis.

Q8. Describe the structure and function of the nucleus.

Answer:
The nucleus is a double membrane-bound organelle containing genetic material (DNA). It has a
nuclear envelope, nucleoplasm, nucleolus, and chromatin. The nucleus controls all cellular activities
like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. It also contains chromosomes that pass hereditary
information from parents to offspring.

Q9. Define diffusion. Give two examples where diffusion occurs in cells.

Answer:
Diffusion is the movement of molecules from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower
concentration.
Examples:

1. Exchange of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide during respiration in cells.

2. Movement of nutrients and waste products across the cell membrane.

It is a passive process and does not require energy.

Q10. What are vacuoles? Mention their function and differences in plant and animal cells.

Answer:
Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs filled with fluid or cell sap. They help in storage, maintaining cell
shape, and internal pressure (turgor). In plant cells, they are large and central, storing water,
nutrients, and waste. In animal cells, vacuoles are small and temporary, mostly involved in waste
disposal.

Long Answer Type Questions (carrying 5 marks each, answer range 80–120 words)

Q1. Explain the structure and function of the cell membrane.

Answer:
The cell membrane is a thin, flexible, and selectively permeable structure made up of lipids and
proteins. The lipid bilayer forms the basic structure, with proteins embedded in it. It controls the
movement of substances into and out of the cell, thus maintaining homeostasis. The membrane also
plays a role in communication with other cells through receptors and helps in cell recognition. It
allows small molecules like oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass freely, while larger molecules like
glucose require transport proteins to enter the cell.

Q2. Discuss the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells with examples.

Answer:
Prokaryotic cells lack a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. The genetic material is
found in the nucleoid region. Examples include bacteria and blue-green algae. Eukaryotic cells have a
well-defined nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane and possess membrane-bound organelles like
the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus. Examples include plant and animal
cells. Eukaryotic cells are generally larger and more complex, whereas prokaryotic cells are smaller
and simpler in structure.

Q3. Describe the role of mitochondria in energy production.

Answer:
Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell because they produce ATP (adenosine
triphosphate) through cellular respiration. The inner membrane of the mitochondria has folds called
cristae, which increase surface area for ATP production. Mitochondria convert glucose and oxygen
into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water. The ATP produced is used by the cell for various energy-
requiring processes, including growth, repair, and maintenance. Mitochondria are unique because
they have their own DNA and can replicate independently of the cell.

Q4. What is the significance of the nucleus in a cell?

Answer:
The nucleus is the control center of the cell and plays a key role in regulating all cellular activities. It
contains the cell's genetic material (DNA) in the form of chromosomes. DNA carries the instructions
for the synthesis of proteins, which are essential for cell function. The nucleus is also involved in cell
division (mitosis and meiosis), ensuring that genetic material is accurately passed on to daughter
cells. The nuclear membrane separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm and has pores to allow the
exchange of materials like RNA and proteins.

Q5. Explain the structure and function of chloroplasts.

Answer:
Chloroplasts are green, double-membrane-bound organelles found in plant cells and some protists.
They contain chlorophyll, a pigment that captures light energy from the sun. Chloroplasts are the
site of photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of glucose.
The inner membrane of chloroplasts has stacks of thylakoids, where the light-dependent reactions
occur. The stroma, the fluid-filled region surrounding the thylakoids, is where the light-independent
reactions (Calvin cycle) take place. Chloroplasts also play a role in the storage of starch.
Q6. How does the cell wall differ from the cell membrane in plant cells?

Answer:
The cell wall is a rigid, outermost layer found in plant cells, fungi, and some prokaryotes. It is made
of cellulose and provides structural support, protection, and shape to the cell. The cell wall is
permeable to water and gases. In contrast, the cell membrane is a semi-permeable membrane made
of a lipid bilayer with embedded proteins. It controls the movement of substances in and out of the
cell, maintains homeostasis, and is flexible. While the cell wall provides strength, the cell membrane
regulates interactions with the environment.

Q7. What are ribosomes, and what is their role in the cell?

Answer:
Ribosomes are small, spherical structures found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They
consist of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. Ribosomes are the site of protein synthesis in the cell.
They read messenger RNA (mRNA) that is transcribed from DNA and assemble amino acids into
polypeptides, which fold into functional proteins. Ribosomes can either be free in the cytoplasm or
attached to the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER), forming the rough ER. Proteins synthesized by
ribosomes are vital for cell structure, function, and regulation.

Q8. Explain the process of cell division and its types.

Answer:
Cell division is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. The two
main types of cell division are mitosis and meiosis.

 Mitosis results in two genetically identical daughter cells and is responsible for growth,
repair, and asexual reproduction in organisms.

 Meiosis occurs in germ cells (sperm and egg) and leads to the formation of four non-
identical daughter cells, each with half the chromosome number, ensuring genetic diversity.
Both processes involve stages like prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, followed
by cytokinesis.

Q9. What is the role of the endoplasmic reticulum in cells?

Answer:
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes involved in the synthesis, folding,
modification, and transport of proteins and lipids. There are two types of ER:

 Rough ER has ribosomes on its surface and is responsible for protein synthesis and their
transport to other parts of the cell or secretion outside.

 Smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in the synthesis of lipids, detoxification, and
metabolism. The ER plays a vital role in maintaining cellular function and structure.

Q10. How do lysosomes contribute to the functioning of the cell?

Answer:
Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes. They play a crucial role in
breaking down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign substances such as bacteria. Lysosomes
help in the process of autophagy, where old and damaged cell components are degraded and
recycled. They are also involved in the process of apoptosis (programmed cell death), helping to
eliminate damaged cells in the body. Their ability to digest materials gives them the nickname
"suicidal bags," as they can digest the entire cell in case of cell damage.

Source-Based/Case-Based Assessment Questions (4 marks each) for the chapter

Q1. Case Study:

A student observed a cell under a microscope and noted that it had a defined nucleus and various
membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria and Golgi apparatus.

Sub-parts: a) Identify the type of cell observed.

b) Name two functions of mitochondria.
c) What is the role of the Golgi apparatus in the cell?
d) What is the significance of the presence of a defined nucleus in this cell?

Q2. Case Study:

A biologist was studying a plant cell and noticed the presence of chloroplasts and a large central
vacuole in the cell.

Sub-parts: a) What is the function of chloroplasts in the plant cell?

b) Describe the structure of chloroplasts.
c) What is the role of the large central vacuole in plant cells?
d) How does the presence of chloroplasts contribute to the plant's survival?

Q3.Case Study:
A cell was observed under a microscope. The cytoplasm of the cell appeared to be divided into
various compartments, and ribosomes were visible on one of the organelles.

Sub-parts: a) Name the organelle where ribosomes were observed.

b) What is the function of ribosomes in the cell?
c) What is the significance of the compartmentalization of the cytoplasm?
d) Why do ribosomes appear on the surface of this organelle?

Q4.Case Study:
A researcher conducted an experiment in which a plant cell was placed in a hypertonic solution. The
cell membrane shrank and detached from the cell wall.

Sub-parts: a) What is the process occurring when the cell membrane shrinks?
b) Define the term "hypertonic solution" in relation to this experiment.
c) Why does the cell wall remain intact while the cell membrane shrinks?
d) What effect does this process have on the plant cell?
Q5.Case Study:
While studying a cell, the biologist noticed that the nucleus had a double membrane and nuclear
pores through which substances passed between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.

Sub-parts: a) What is the function of the nuclear membrane?

b) What is the role of nuclear pores?
c) How does the presence of the nucleus influence the function of the cell?
d) What is the genetic material present in the nucleus?

Q6.Case Study:
In an experiment, a researcher found that the plant cell had a well-defined cell wall and a large
central vacuole filled with cell sap.

Sub-parts: a) What is the primary function of the cell wall in plant cells?
b) Describe the structure of the cell wall.
c) What is the function of the central vacuole?
d) How does the central vacuole contribute to the cell's turgidity?

Q7.Case Study:
A biologist was observing a cell and saw that it had a fluid-filled sac with digestive enzymes. This
organelle was involved in breaking down waste materials and worn-out cell parts.

Sub-parts: a) Name the organelle observed in this cell.

b) What is the function of the digestive enzymes in this organelle?
c) How does this organelle contribute to cellular homeostasis?
d) What would happen if this organelle did not function properly?

Q8.Case Study:
A student was examining a tissue sample and noted the presence of both smooth and rough
endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the cells. The rough ER had ribosomes attached to it.

Sub-parts: a) What is the difference between rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
b) What is the role of ribosomes on the rough ER?
c) What function does the smooth ER perform in the cell?
d) How does the ER contribute to the overall functioning of the cell?

Q9.Case Study:
A scientist was investigating a cell with a distinct, membrane-bound compartment that stores
genetic material. This compartment is central to cell division and genetic inheritance.

Sub-parts: a) Identify the compartment described in the case study.

b) What is the genetic material stored in this compartment?
c) What is the function of this compartment during cell division?
d) How does this compartment ensure the transmission of genetic information?
Q10.Case Study:
A researcher observed a cell under the microscope and found it lacking a distinct nucleus and other
membrane-bound organelles. It had a simple structure and appeared smaller in size.

Sub-parts: a) What type of cell is being described?

b) Give one example of an organism with this type of cell.
c) What is the key characteristic that distinguishes this cell type from eukaryotic cells?
d) What is the role of the nucleoid region in this type of cell?