Question

Digestive compartment of eukaryotic cells is :

• A. Peroxisome
• B. Mitochondria
• C. Golgi Apparatus
• D. Lysosome

Hint:

Lysosomes contain acid hydrolases that only function at an acidic pH (around 5.0). If a lysosome accidentally breaks, the enzymes are largely deactivated by the neutral pH of the cytosol, protecting the cell from digesting itself!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Concept:
This question tests basic cell biology, specifically the function of various membrane-bound organelles within a eukaryotic cell.

Step 2: Step-by-step Explanation:

• Peroxisome (A): Contains oxidative enzymes for lipid metabolism and chemical detoxification (breaking down hydrogen peroxide). It is not the primary digestive compartment for macromolecules.

• Mitochondria (B): The powerhouse of the cell, responsible for generating ATP through cellular respiration.

• Golgi Apparatus (C): Responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

• Lysosome (D): Often referred to as the "stomach" or "garbage disposal" of the cell. It contains highly active acid hydrolase enzymes that break down and digest cellular waste, debris, and engulfed macromolecules (like proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates) into their basic building blocks. It acts as the primary digestive compartment.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The lysosome is the digestive compartment, which matches option (D).