Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 42m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Introduction to the Cytoskeleton

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Introduction to the Cytoskeleton

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2:18 minutes

Problem 7

Textbook Question

Describe two different ways in which cilia can function in organisms.

Verified step by step guidance

Cilia are hair-like structures that extend from the surface of many eukaryotic cells and can perform various functions depending on their location and the organism.

One function of cilia is to move fluid or mucus over the surface of a tissue. For example, in the human respiratory tract, cilia help to clear mucus and trapped particles out of the airways, protecting the lungs from infection and irritation.

Another function of cilia is to facilitate movement. In certain single-celled organisms, such as paramecia, cilia beat in coordinated waves, allowing the organism to swim through its aquatic environment.

Cilia can also play a sensory role. In some cells, they act as antennae, detecting changes in the environment and sending signals to the cell's interior to trigger a response.

In summary, cilia can function in locomotion, fluid movement, and sensory reception, highlighting their versatility and importance in various biological processes.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Cilia Structure and Function

Cilia are microscopic, hair-like structures that extend from the surface of many eukaryotic cells. They are composed of microtubules arranged in a specific pattern and are involved in various functions, including movement and sensory perception. Their coordinated beating can propel cells or move fluid across cell surfaces, playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis.

Motile Cilia

Motile cilia are specialized cilia that beat in a coordinated manner to facilitate movement. In organisms like paramecia, motile cilia help in locomotion, allowing the organism to swim through water. In multicellular organisms, such as humans, motile cilia line the respiratory tract, helping to move mucus and trapped particles out of the lungs, thus playing a vital role in respiratory health.

Non-Motile Cilia (Primary Cilia)

Non-motile cilia, also known as primary cilia, serve primarily as sensory organelles. They are found on nearly all cell types and play a critical role in signal transduction, allowing cells to respond to their environment. For example, primary cilia are involved in sensing fluid flow in kidney cells, which is essential for maintaining kidney function and overall fluid balance in the body.