American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which component of a cell is located at its center?

1. Chromosomes

2. Cytoplasm

3. Nucleus

4. Cell membrane

The correct answer is: Nucleus

The nucleus is the component of a cell that is located at its center and serves as the control center of the cell. It houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) and is responsible for regulating various cellular activities, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. By storing and managing the information necessary for the cell’s function and heredity, the nucleus plays a crucial role in the life of the cell. In contrast, chromosomes are the structures within the nucleus that contain the genetic information, but they do not represent the central component themselves. The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance that fills the cell and contains all organelles, but it surrounds the nucleus rather than being located at the center. The cell membrane is the protective outer layer that surrounds the entire cell, providing structure and controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell, but it is not positioned at the center. Therefore, the nucleus stands out as the central organelle that governs the functions of the cell.