In eukaryotic cells, the cytoplasm is contained within cells in the space between the _____ and the _____.
a
cell membrane and the plasma membrane
b
cell membrane and the nuclear membrane
c
plasma membrane and the external glycoproteins
d
nucleus and the nuclear membrane, only
b
cell membrane and the nuclear membrane
c) plasma membrane and the external glycoproteins
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the structure of eukaryotic cells and the organization of their internal components.
Eukaryotic cells are structurally more complex than prokaryotic cells. One of the key features of eukaryotic cells is the presence of a distinct nucleus, which is surrounded by a double-layered nuclear membrane called the nuclear envelope. The nucleus houses the genetic material of the cell, including chromosomes and DNA.
The cytoplasm of a eukaryotic cell is the region between the cell membrane (also known as the plasma membrane) and the nuclear envelope. It is a gel-like substance that fills the space within the cell and contains various organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and others. The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including metabolism, protein synthesis, and transportation.
Now, let's examine the given options:
a) Cell membrane and the plasma membrane: This option does not accurately represent the structure of eukaryotic cells. The terms "cell membrane" and "plasma membrane" essentially refer to the same thing—the lipid bilayer that surrounds the cell. This option suggests that the cytoplasm is located between two identical structures, which is incorrect.
b) Cell membrane and the nuclear membrane: This option correctly represents the structure of eukaryotic cells. The cytoplasm is indeed contained within cells, specifically between the cell membrane and the nuclear membrane (also known as the nuclear envelope).
c) Plasma membrane and the external glycoproteins: This option is incorrect. While the plasma membrane is part of the cytoplasmic boundary, external glycoproteins are not relevant to the cytoplasm's location.
d) Nucleus and the nuclear membrane, only: This option is incorrect. It suggests that the cytoplasm is located exclusively between the nucleus and nuclear membrane, which is not accurate. The cytoplasm occupies the entire region between the cell membrane and nuclear membrane.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is:
b) Cell membrane and the nuclear membrane
The cytoplasm is contained within eukaryotic cells, between the cell membrane and the nuclear membrane.