Which organelle is primarily responsible for transporting materials within a eukaryotic cell?

• A. Vesicles
• B. Lysosomes
• C. Endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Golgi apparatus

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of each organelle listed in the options. Vesicles are membrane-bound structures that transport materials within the cell. Lysosomes are involved in breaking down waste and cellular debris. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for protein and lipid synthesis and can also transport materials within the cell. The Golgi apparatus modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport.
2. Step 2: Focus on the primary role of transporting materials. While vesicles are directly involved in transport, they are not considered an organelle but rather a structure. The endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus are organelles that play significant roles in material transport.
3. Step 3: Compare the roles of the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. The ER transports materials within the cell, especially between itself and the Golgi apparatus. The Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging materials for transport to their final destinations.
4. Step 4: Determine which organelle is primarily responsible for transporting materials. The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in internal transport, while the Golgi apparatus is more focused on preparing materials for transport outside the cell or to specific locations within the cell.
5. Step 5: Based on the analysis, identify the organelle that is primarily responsible for transporting materials within the cell. The correct answer is the endoplasmic reticulum.