Which of the following pairs correctly matches a membrane transport process to its primary function?

• A. Phagocytosis: secretion of large particles from the cell by fusion of vesicles with the plasma membrane
• B. Exocytosis: the movement of water and solutes out of the cell by passage through the plasma membrane
• C. Osmosis: passive diffusion of water and small solutes across a membrane
• D. None of the listed responses is correct.
• E. Pinocytosis: the uptake of water and small solutes into the cell by formation of vesicles at the plasma membrane

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of membrane transport processes: Membrane transport processes are mechanisms by which substances move across the cell membrane. They can be active or passive, depending on whether they require energy.
2. Define each process: Phagocytosis is the engulfing of large particles by the cell. Exocytosis involves the secretion of substances out of the cell. Osmosis is the passive movement of water across a membrane. Pinocytosis is the uptake of fluid and small solutes into the cell.
3. Analyze the function of each process: Phagocytosis is primarily for intake, not secretion. Exocytosis is for expelling substances, not moving water and solutes out. Osmosis involves only water, not solutes. Pinocytosis involves the uptake of water and solutes.
4. Match the processes to their functions: Pinocytosis correctly matches the function of uptake of water and small solutes into the cell by vesicle formation.
5. Conclude that the correct match is Pinocytosis: the uptake of water and small solutes into the cell by formation of vesicles at the plasma membrane.