1. Cells become specialized through the process of: Answer differentiation or maturation 2. The eight specialized cellular functions are: Answer movement, conductivity, metabolic absorption, secretion, excretion, respiration, reproduction, communication 3. The eukaryotic cell consists of three general components:: Answer the plasma mem- brane, the cytoplasm, and the intracellular organelles. 4. The nucleus is the largest membrane-bound organelle and is usually found in the cell's center.The chief functions of the nucleus are: Answer cell division and control of genetic information. 5. Cytoplasm, or the cytoplasmic matrix, is: Answer an aqueous solution (cytosol) that fills the space between the nucleus and the plasma membrane. 6. The organelles are: Answer suspended in the cytoplasm and are enclosed in biologic membranes. 7. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of tubular channels(cisternae) that extend throughout the outer nuclear membrane. It specializes: Answer in the synthesis and transport of protein and lipid components of most of the organelles. Importantly, the ER is responsible for protein folding and sensing cell stress