Question

A labeled model of an amoeba is shown above. These are heterotrophic, single celled protists. They have unique cellular structures called pseudopodia that facilitate movement and food acquisition. What type of cell transport likely accounts for the formation of the food vacuole within the amoeba?

A) phagocytosis
B) active transport
C) simple diffusion
D) facilitated diffusion

Answer 1

The answer is A) Phagocytosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

An amoeba usually gets its nutrients from engulfing large food particles by the process of phagocytosis.

1. As an amoeba approaches the desired food particle, it extends it pseudopods around it, eventually surrounding the food and internalizing it.
2. The food then becomes enclosed by the pseudopodia, creating a food vacuole.
3. Digestive enzymes, such as lysosomes, will fuse with the food vacuole and start breaking down the food. The nutrients will then be diffused throughout the cytoplasm.