Biology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

The primary job of an organelle in a eukaryotic cell is to:

1. Absorb nutrients

2. Transport chemicals

3. Produce energy

4. Replicate the cell

The correct answer is: Produce energy

Organelles are specialized subunits within a cell that perform specific functions to help the cell survive. Option A is incorrect because the process of absorbing nutrients is not the primary function of all organelles. Only specific organelles such as the cell membrane or lysosomes are involved in nutrient absorption. Option B is also incorrect because while some organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum are involved in chemical transport, it is not the primary job of all organelles. Option D is incorrect because the process of cell replication is only carried out by specific organelles such as the nucleus and centrosomes. Option C is the correct answer because the primary job of most organelles is to produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration or photosynthesis. This energy is necessary for the cell to carry out its other functions and survive.