A Level Biology Practice Exam

Endocytosis refers to which of the following processes?

1. Transport of materials out of cells

2. Bulk transport of materials into cells

3. Active transport of ions across membranes

4. Fluid movement through cell membranes

The correct answer is: Bulk transport of materials into cells

Endocytosis is a process that describes the bulk transport of materials into cells. It involves the engulfing of substances by the cell membrane, which then forms a vesicle to bring those materials inside the cell. This mechanism is essential for a range of biological functions, such as nutrient uptake, immune response, and the removal of cell debris. The other options do not accurately describe endocytosis. For instance, the transport of materials out of cells refers to exocytosis, which is the reverse process. Active transport of ions across membranes involves specific proteins and energy to move ions against their concentration gradient, which differs from the general mechanism of endocytosis. Fluid movement through cell membranes can occur via diffusion or osmosis and does not specifically involve the bulk incorporation of material into the cell like endocytosis does. Thus, the process highlighted in the correct answer accurately captures the essence of endocytosis.