Identify the correct statement about differences between rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER).

The outer surface of smooth ER lacks ribosomes, whereas the outer surface of rough ER has ribosomes.
Rough ER consists of a network of membranous tubules and sacs called cisternae, whereas smooth ER is less complex.
Smooth ER is part of the endomembrane system of the eukaryotic cell, and rough ER is not.

1 answer

The correct statement is:

The outer surface of smooth ER lacks ribosomes, whereas the outer surface of rough ER has ribosomes.

This accurately describes one of the main differences between rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Rough ER is characterized by the presence of ribosomes on its surface, which are involved in protein synthesis, while smooth ER does not have ribosomes and is involved in lipid synthesis and other functions.

The other statements are incorrect. Both rough and smooth ER are part of the endomembrane system of eukaryotic cells, and rough ER is more complex in structure due to the presence of ribosomes and the specific roles it plays in protein processing and folding.