What are the basic parts of a cell?

• A. Only nucleus
• B. Mitochondria and nucleus
• C. Nucleus, cell membrane, cytoplasm
• D. Only cytoplasm

Answer: (C)

Cells have three main parts: the nucleus, the cell membrane, and the cytoplasm. The nucleus houses DNA and acts as the command center, directing activities. The cell membrane is the outer boundary that protects the cell and controls what enters and leaves. The cytoplasm fills the cell and is where most chemical reactions occur, also containing the organelles. Together, these three components define the basic structure: the membrane encloses the interior, the cytoplasm provides space and a workspace, and the nucleus provides genetic instructions. Other options omit one of these essential parts or focus only on organelles, which doesn’t capture the basic layout of a typical cell.