Nucleus
What Nucleus means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Nucleus
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Nucleus in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A structure bounded by its own membrane that holds the genetic material, DNA, separated from the cytoplasm.
Contains DNA and controls the cell's activities; present in animal and plant cells but absent in bacteria.
A structure that contains DNA and therefore acts as the control centre of the cell.
Contains DNA and controls the cell's activities, including protein synthesis.
The cell's control room, which contains chromosomes made of DNA molecules.
Contains DNA and controls the cell's activities.
Topics that use Nucleus
- Animal and plant cells (AQA GCSE)
- Chromosomes (AQA GCSE)
- DNA and the genome (AQA GCSE)
- Eukaryotes and prokaryotes (AQA GCSE)
- Topic 1 – Key concepts in biology (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
Using Nucleus in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge