National League for Nursing (NLN) Science Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the National League for Nursing Science Exam. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions that provide hints and explanations. Excel in your exam preparation!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Which cellular structure is responsible for synthesizing ribosomal RNA?

Nucleolus
Nucleus
Cytoplasm
Endoplasmic reticulum

The correct answer is: Nucleolus

The nucleolus is the specialized cellular structure responsible for synthesizing ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Within the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, the nucleolus serves as the site where rRNA is transcribed and combined with proteins to form the subunits of ribosomes. These ribosomal subunits are then transported out to the cytoplasm, where they play a crucial role in protein synthesis by serving as the site of translation. The nucleus contains the genetic material and is the control center for cell activities, but it is the nucleolus within the nucleus that specifically handles rRNA synthesis. The cytoplasm, while it participates in various cellular processes, does not synthesize rRNA; rather, it is where ribosomes function in protein synthesis. The endoplasmic reticulum, especially the rough type, is involved in protein synthesis and processing, but it is distinct from the specific function of rRNA synthesis that occurs in the nucleolus.