AEMCA Practice Exam

Which organelle is known for digestion and waste processing in the cell?

1. Nucleus

2. Lysosomes

3. Mitochondrion

4. Golgi apparatus

The correct answer is: Lysosomes

Lysosomes are referred to as the cellular organelles responsible for digestion and waste processing. They contain a variety of hydrolytic enzymes that are capable of breaking down complex biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids into simpler products. This process is essential for the recycling of cellular materials, as lysosomes effectively manage the removal of cellular debris and toxins. Additionally, lysosomes play a pivotal role during cellular processes like autophagy, where they digest damaged or unnecessary components of the cell, ensuring cellular health and homeostasis. The acidic environment within lysosomes is critical for the optimal functioning of these enzymes, allowing the degradation of substances taken up through endocytosis, phagocytosis, or through their own cellular structures. In contrast, the other organelles listed have distinct functions unrelated to digestion or waste processing. The nucleus is primarily responsible for storing genetic information and coordinating cellular activities, while mitochondria are involved in energy production through the process of oxidative phosphorylation. The Golgi apparatus serves as a sorting and modifying center for proteins and lipids synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum, preparing them for secretion or delivery to other organelles.