Describe the structure of the following | Class 11 Biology Chapter Cell: The Unit of Life, Cell: The Unit of Life NCERT Solutions

Current NCERT chapter

Academic session 2026-27, Chapter 8 in the current curriculum.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Biology - Chapter Cell: The Unit of Life. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 13:

Describe the structure of the following with the help of labelled diagrams.
(i) Nucleus
(ii) Centrosome

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 13:

Describe the structure of the following with the help of labelled diagrams.
(i) Nucleus
(ii) Centrosome

Answer:

(i) Nucleus

Nucleus controls all the cellular activities of the cell. It is spherical in shape. It is composed of the following structures:

Nuclear membrane: It is a double membrane separating the contents of the nucleus from the cytoplasm. The narrow space between the two membranes is called the perinuclear space. Nuclear membrane has tiny holes called nuclear pores. These holes allow specific substances to be transferred into a nucleus and out from it.

Nucleoplasm/Nuclear matrix: It is a homogenous granular fluid present inside the nucleus. It contains the nucleolus and chromatin. Nucleolus is a spherical structure that is not bound by any membrane. It is rich in protein and RNA molecules, and is the site for ribosome formation. Chromatin is an entangled mass of thread-like structures. It contains DNA and some basic proteins called histones.

Nucleoplasm/Nuclear matrix

(ii) Centrosome

Centrosome consists of two cylindrical structures called centrioles. Centrioles lie perpendicular to each other. Each has a cartwheel-like organisation.

A centriole is made up of microtubule triplets that are evenly spaced in a ring. The adjacent triplets are linked together. There is a proteinaceous hub in the central part of a centriole. The hub is connected to the triplets via radial spokes. These centrioles help in organising the spindle fibres and astral rays during cell division. They form the basal body of cilia and flagella as well.

Centrosome


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Cell: The Unit of Life.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Comments

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  • Dec 04, 2019

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  • Sep 23, 2018

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  • Jun 05, 2018

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Biology - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 13: Describe the structure of the following with the help of labelled diagrams. (i) Nucleus (ii) Centr....

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