Comparative Cell Biology — What fundamental cellular features do an elephant (animal cell) and an oak tree (plant cell) share?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction:
The goal is to identify common eukaryotic traits shared by animal and plant cells. Despite obvious differences (cell wall, chloroplasts, vacuoles), both lineages retain hallmark eukaryotic features.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Elephant cells are animal eukaryotic cells.
  • Oak tree cells are plant eukaryotic cells.
  • Eukaryotes have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
  • Both animals and plants possess mitochondria for aerobic respiration.


Concept / Approach:
Check each statement for general eukaryotic validity. If all are true, the inclusive option becomes correct.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Eukaryote status: both animals and plants are eukaryotes; true.2) Nucleus: both possess a nucleus containing linear chromosomes; true.3) Mitochondria: universal among known aerobic eukaryotes; true.4) Therefore the combined choice 'All of the above' is correct.


Verification / Alternative check:
Plant cells contain mitochondria in addition to chloroplasts; chloroplast presence does not negate mitochondrial presence.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

a) True but incomplete.b) True but not exhaustive.c) True but singular.e) False: eukaryotes characteristically have many membrane-bound organelles.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming plants use only chloroplasts for energy and lack mitochondria; forgetting that 'eukaryote' already implies a nucleus.


Final Answer:
All of the above.

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