Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is Metaphase. During Metaphase, the chromosomes line up along the center of the cell's equator, forming the metaphase plate. This alignment ensures that during the subsequent phase, Anaphase, the sister chromatids can separate and move towards opposite poles. Prophase is the initial phase of mitosis where chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down. Telophase is the final phase of mitosis where two new nuclei form.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Peroxisomes. Peroxisomes are responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the cell by breaking down fatty acids and producing hydrogen peroxide. This process helps protect the cell from damage caused by toxic substances. Choice A, Endoplasmic Reticulum, is involved in protein and lipid synthesis, not detoxification. Choice B, Lysosomes, contain enzymes for digestion and waste removal, not primarily detoxification. Choice D, Golgi Apparatus, is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion, not detoxification.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Passive transport refers to the movement of substances across cell membranes without the need for energy input. In contrast, active transport, choice A, requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient. Diffusion, choice C, is a type of passive transport where substances move from an area of high concentration to low concentration. Osmosis, choice D, specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The cell membrane is the correct answer. It is the most important component of the cell as it provides protection, facilitates communication, and regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. The cytoplasm (Choice A) is the gel-like substance within the cell that holds organelles, but it is not primarily responsible for the functions mentioned in the question. The cytoskeleton (Choice C) provides structural support to the cell but is not directly involved in protection, communication, or substance passage. Vacuoles (Choice D) are responsible for storage and maintaining turgor pressure but do not play a primary role in the functions specified in the question.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Mitochondria. Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell because they are responsible for cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells. During cellular respiration, mitochondria generate energy in the form of ATP. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The nucleus is the organelle that houses the cell's genetic material, chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells, and ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, not cellular respiration.