Questions: ATI TEAS SmartPrep 2.0: Science Close ati. TEAS SmartPrep: Science Pretest ? Quiz Instruction Which of the following statements describes the function of ribosomes? A They are used by cells to protect strands of DNA. B They maintain lipid production and storage. C They facilitate protein synthesis. D They convert food energy into cell energy.

The answer is C: They facilitate protein synthesis.

Explanation for each option:

A. They are used by cells to protect strands of DNA.

• This statement is incorrect. Ribosomes are not involved in protecting DNA. The protection of DNA is primarily the role of the cell nucleus and associated proteins like histones.

B. They maintain lipid production and storage.

• This statement is incorrect. Lipid production and storage are functions of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and other organelles like lipid droplets, not ribosomes.

C. They facilitate protein synthesis.

• This statement is correct. Ribosomes are the cellular structures responsible for translating mRNA into proteins, thus facilitating protein synthesis.

D. They convert food energy into cell energy.

• This statement is incorrect. The conversion of food energy into cell energy is primarily the function of mitochondria, not ribosomes.

In summary, ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis in cells, making option C the correct choice.