Which of the following describes the function of cilia in eukaryotic cells?

• A. They help in the movement of the cell or fluids across the cell surface.
• B. They store and modify lipids and proteins.
• C. They are responsible for energy production through cellular respiration.
• D. They synthesize proteins by translating mRNA.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that cilia are hair-like structures on the surface of eukaryotic cells.
2. Recognize that cilia are primarily involved in movement, either moving the cell itself or moving fluids across the cell's surface.
3. Differentiate the function of cilia from other cellular components: mitochondria are responsible for energy production, ribosomes synthesize proteins, and the Golgi apparatus modifies and stores lipids and proteins.
4. Identify that the primary function of cilia is related to movement, which is distinct from the functions of energy production, protein synthesis, or lipid modification.
5. Conclude that the correct description of cilia's function is their role in aiding movement, either of the cell or of fluids across the cell surface.