Which of the following is characteristic of cilia?

• A. They are involved in protein synthesis within the cytoplasm.
• B. They are short, hair-like structures that move fluid or cells over their surface.
• C. They are long, whip-like structures used primarily for cell locomotion.
• D. They store genetic information in the form of DNA.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function and structure of cilia: Cilia are short, hair-like structures found on the surface of certain cells. Their primary role is to move fluid, mucus, or cells over their surface, often in a coordinated, wave-like motion.
2. Differentiate cilia from other cellular structures: Cilia are distinct from flagella, which are long, whip-like structures primarily used for cell locomotion, and from organelles like ribosomes, which are involved in protein synthesis.
3. Eliminate incorrect options: Protein synthesis occurs in the cytoplasm via ribosomes, not cilia. Genetic information is stored in the nucleus in the form of DNA, not in cilia.
4. Focus on the correct characteristic: The defining feature of cilia is their ability to move substances across the cell surface, which is essential for processes like clearing mucus in respiratory pathways or aiding in the movement of eggs in the female reproductive tract.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: Based on the explanation, the correct characteristic of cilia is that they are short, hair-like structures that move fluid or cells over their surface.