What is the primary function of the nucleus in a cell?

The primary function of the nucleus in a cell is to contain genetic material and control cell activities. The nucleus is often referred to as the control center of the cell because it houses the cell's DNA, which contains the instructions necessary for the development, functioning, and reproduction of the organism. This genetic material is organized into chromosomes and plays a critical role in regulating various cellular processes, including growth, metabolism, and the synthesis of proteins.

In addition to housing DNA, the nucleus is responsible for overseeing the process of gene expression, where specific genes are turned on or off depending on the needs of the cell. This regulation ensures that the appropriate proteins are synthesized at the right times, allowing the cell to respond to environmental changes and maintain homeostasis.

The other choices refer to functions that are associated with different parts of the cell. For instance, the structure that holds the cell together is the cell membrane, which maintains the integrity of the cell and regulates the movement of materials in and out. Protein synthesis primarily occurs in the ribosomes, either floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, rather than in the nucleus itself. Photosynthesis takes place in chloroplasts, which are specific to plant cells and certain protists, not in