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Ch. 4 - Introduction to Eukaryotic Cells
Norman-McKay- Microbiology: Basic and Clinical Principles 2nd Edition
Norman-McKay2nd EditionMicrobiology: Basic and Clinical PrinciplesISBN: 9780137661619Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 4, Problem 7

___________________ is also called cell drinking and is an example of an endocytic process.

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1
Understand the key terms in the question: 'cell drinking' and 'endocytic process'. Endocytosis is a cellular process where the cell engulfs material from its surroundings by enclosing it in a vesicle formed from the plasma membrane.
Recall that there are different types of endocytosis, including phagocytosis (cell eating) and pinocytosis (cell drinking).
Identify that 'cell drinking' refers to the uptake of fluids and dissolved substances, which is characteristic of pinocytosis.
Recognize that pinocytosis is a form of endocytosis where the cell takes in extracellular fluid and small molecules by forming small vesicles.
Conclude that the term that fits the blank is 'Pinocytosis', which is also called cell drinking and is an example of an endocytic process.

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Key Concepts

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

Endocytosis

Endocytosis is a cellular process where the cell membrane engulfs external substances, bringing them into the cell enclosed in vesicles. It allows cells to intake nutrients, fluids, and other molecules from their environment.
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Pinocytosis

Pinocytosis, also known as 'cell drinking,' is a type of endocytosis where the cell ingests extracellular fluid and dissolved solutes. It is a non-specific process that helps cells sample their surroundings and absorb nutrients.
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Types of Endocytosis

Endocytosis includes various mechanisms such as phagocytosis (cell eating), pinocytosis (cell drinking), and receptor-mediated endocytosis. Each type differs in the substances taken up and the specificity of the process.
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