Question map
Not attempted Correct Incorrect ★ Bookmarked
Loading…
Q73 (CDS-I/2025) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Human anatomy physiology Answer Verified

Why does the Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum look 'rough' under a microscope ?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: A
Explanation

The Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER) derives its name from its characteristic 'rough' or 'bumpy' appearance when viewed under an electron microscope [1]. This distinct morphology is caused by the presence of numerous ribosomes attached to its cytoplasmic surface. These ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis, specifically for proteins destined for secretion or membrane integration. In contrast, the Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) lacks these surface ribosomes, giving it a smooth appearance [1]. The ribosomes on the RER are not permanently fixed; they bind to the membrane via translocons when translating mRNA that contains a specific signal peptide [1]. This granular or studded appearance is a key structural feature that distinguishes the RER from other organelles and the SER [2].

Sources

  1. [1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/rough-endoplasmic-reticulum
  2. [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563126/
How others answered
Each bar shows the % of students who chose that option. Green bar = correct answer, blue outline = your choice.
Community Performance
Out of everyone who attempted this question.
75%
got it right
✓ Thank you! We'll review this.

SIMILAR QUESTIONS

CAPF · 2019 · Q7 Relevance score: 8.10

Rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) looks rough under the microscope because of the attachment of which one of the following cell organelles to its surface?

CAPF · 2022 · Q13 Relevance score: -0.21

Lysosomes are sacs of the cell filled with digestive enzymes. These digestive enzymes are synthesized by

CDS-II · 2023 · Q1 Relevance score: -0.41

Which one of the following is the correct combination of organelles and their functions?

NDA-II · 2018 · Q8 Relevance score: -2.13

One of the additional functions of Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum (SER) is

CDS-I · 2019 · Q115 Relevance score: -2.41

Which one of the following functions is not carried out by smooth endoplasmic reticulum?