Chapter 23, Problem 1RQ

To determine

Whether the cell nucleus is present within the cytoplasm or the cytoplasm is within the cell nucleus.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

The nucleus of the cell is found inside the cytoplasm but is not considered as the component of the cytoplasm.

Explanation of Solution

The nucleus is a huge and is centrally localised cellular component in the cell which is spherical in shape. It is surrounded by two nuclear membranes which results in the formation of a nuclear envelope. The nuclear envelop encloses a space between two nuclear membranes and is connected to a system of membranes called the endoplasmic reticulum.

The part of the cell which occurs between the plasma membrane and nuclear envelop is termed as cytoplasm. The granular mass which is inside the cytoplasm is named as endoplasm whereas the outer glassy and clearer layer is named as cell cortex or the ectoplasm.

Thus, the nuclear envelop separates the nucleus from the cytoplasm. There are many pores on the surface of the nuclear envelop which encloses the liquid ground substance named as the nucleoplasm.

Conclusion:

The nucleus of the cell is found inside the cytoplasm but is not considered as the component of the cytoplasm. They both are separated by nucleoplasm.