97.7k views
2 votes
The process by which a cell engulfs a foreign particle is known as:

A) Exocytosis
B) Phagocytosis
C) Pinocytosis
D) Endocytosis

User Remi
by
7.4k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

The cell engulfs a foreign particle through a process called phagocytosis, a type of endocytosis for large particles, distinguishing it from pinocytosis which is for small particles in fluid.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process by which a cell engulfs a foreign particle is known as phagocytosis. This form of endocytosis allows the cell to capture and ingest large particles such as invading bacteria, cell fragments, or other macro-sized materials from the extracellular fluid. In phagocytosis, the cell membrane extends around the particle to form a vesicle, which then detaches and enters the cytoplasm of the cell. On the other hand, pinocytosis is a related process where the cell ingests fluid along with small particles dissolved in it, sometimes described as "cell drinking."

User Dumamilk
by
8.0k points