Basal bodies are most closely associated with which of the following cell components?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Mitochondria
• C. The central vacuole
• D. Golgi apparatus
• E. Cilia

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of basal bodies: Basal bodies are organelles that serve as the nucleation site for the growth of cilia and flagella.
2. Recognize the structure of cilia: Cilia are hair-like structures that extend from the surface of many eukaryotic cells and are involved in movement and sensory functions.
3. Identify the relationship between basal bodies and cilia: Basal bodies are located at the base of cilia and are structurally similar to centrioles, providing the foundation for cilia formation.
4. Differentiate basal bodies from other cell components: Unlike the nucleus, mitochondria, central vacuole, or Golgi apparatus, basal bodies are specifically associated with the formation and function of cilia.
5. Conclude that basal bodies are most closely associated with cilia, as they are essential for the assembly and anchoring of these structures.