UPSC Prelims 2001 · General Studies

Question 123: Science and Technology

Which of the following cell organelles play the most significant role in protein synthesis?

aLysosome and Centrosome

bEndoplasmic reticulum and Ribosome

cGolgi apparatus and Mitochondria

dLysosome and Mitochondria

AnswerThe answer is (b).

Ribosomes are the sites where amino acids are joined into proteins, and the endoplasmic reticulum, especially the rough ER studded with ribosomes, helps fold and transport the proteins made. Lysosomes digest waste, centrosomes help in cell division, the Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins, and mitochondria release energy. Remember that the ribosome makes the protein and the ER processes it.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Lysosomes digest waste, and centrosomes help in cell division.
(b) Right: the ER and ribosomes.
(c) The Golgi packages proteins and mitochondria supply energy, but neither makes them.
(d) Lysosomes digest, and mitochondria supply energy.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2001, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.