What is the Difference in Function Between the Smooth and Rough

Question

What is the difference in function between the smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?
A)The rough ER produces ATP, while the smooth ER does not.
B)The rough ER helps with cellular movements, while the smooth ER does not.
C)The rough ER conducts lipid synthesis, while the smooth ER conducts protein synthesis.
D)The rough ER breaks down lipids, while the smooth ER breaks down proteins and debris.
E)The rough ER conducts protein synthesis, while the smooth ER conducts lipid synthesis.

Accepted Answer

The rough ER is studded with ribosomes and primarily involved in protein synthesis, while the smooth ER lacks ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis. Therefore, the correct answer is (E) the rough ER conducts protein synthesis, while the smooth ER conducts lipid synthesis.