AP Biology : Understanding Cell Types

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Biology

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Example Questions

Example Question #11 : Understanding Cell Types

Which of the following is true regarding red blood cells?

Possible Answers:

They have no nucleus

They live for about 1 month

They produce antibodies

They are the target of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

They are made by the liver

Correct answer:

They have no nucleus

Explanation:

Red blood cells are made in the bone marrow, and live for about 3-4 months. They are enucleated (lacking a nucleus), which makes more space available for hemoglobin molecules, which function to carry oxygen to the tissues. HIV infects T-helper cells, which are white blood cells, not red blood cells. Thus, the name makes sense since the virus infects cells of the immune system (white blood cells) and causes immunodeficiency. The liver and spleen play roles in recycling the red blood cells once they have carried out their function for about 120 days.

Example Question #12 : Understanding Cell Types

Which of the following is not an immune cell?

Possible Answers:

B-cells

Basophils

Neutrophils

Keratinocytes

Macrophage

Correct answer:

Keratinocytes

Explanation:

Keratinocytes are not immune cells. Rather, they secrete a protein called keratin which is a large proportion of the extracellular matrix and makes up hair, nails, skin, and other parts of the body. All other cells are immune cells. 

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