Cell Organelles: Vacuoles MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is designed for Class IX Science (Code 086) students, focusing on Unit II: Organization in the Living World. The specific topic covers Vacuoles, including their function in storage and the size differences observed between plant and animal cells. Test your understanding by answering the 10 multiple-choice questions below, then click submit to view your score and download a PDF answer sheet for revision.
Overview of Vacuoles
Vacuoles are membrane-bound organelles found in both plant and animal cells, though their size, number, and function differ significantly between the two. They are essentially storage sacs for solid or liquid contents.
Key Functions
- Storage: They store water, waste products, food, and other substances like amino acids, sugars, and various organic acids.
- Structural Support: In plant cells, vacuoles are filled with cell sap and provide turgidity and rigidity to the cell.
- Osmoregulation: In some unicellular organisms, specialized vacuoles help expel excess water.
Plant vs. Animal Vacuoles
| Feature | Plant Cells | Animal Cells |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Very large (can occupy 50-90% of cell volume) | Small and often temporary |
| Number | Usually one large central vacuole | Many small scattered vacuoles |
| Function | Maintains turgor pressure; stores sap | Stores nutrients, water, or waste |
Structure
The vacuole is surrounded by a single membrane called the tonoplast. The fluid inside the vacuole is known as cell sap. The tonoplast facilitates the transport of a number of ions and other materials against concentration gradients into the vacuole.
Special Types
Food Vacuole: In single-celled organisms like Amoeba, the food vacuole contains the food item that the organism has consumed.
Contractile Vacuole: Found in some unicellular organisms, these play important roles in expelling excess water and some wastes from the cell.
Extra Practice Questions
- What is the name of the fluid contained within a plant vacuole?
- Why is the tonoplast important for ion concentration?
- How does a central vacuole help a plant stay upright?
- Name one substance other than water stored in vacuoles.
- Do all animal cells have vacuoles?
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