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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the main difference between endocytosis and exocytosis?
A
Endocytosis moves substances into the cell, while exocytosis moves substances out of the cell.
B
Endocytosis only occurs in plant cells, while exocytosis only occurs in animal cells.
C
Endocytosis requires energy, but exocytosis does not.
D
Endocytosis involves the fusion of vesicles with the plasma membrane, while exocytosis involves the formation of vesicles from the plasma membrane.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the processes of endocytosis and exocytosis. Endocytosis is the process by which cells engulf substances from their external environment into the cell, forming vesicles. Exocytosis, on the other hand, is the process by which cells expel substances from inside the cell to the external environment using vesicles.
Step 2: Clarify the mechanism of each process. In endocytosis, the plasma membrane folds inward to form a vesicle that encloses the substance being brought into the cell. In exocytosis, vesicles formed inside the cell fuse with the plasma membrane to release their contents outside the cell.
Step 3: Address the energy requirement. Both endocytosis and exocytosis are active transport processes, meaning they require energy in the form of ATP to move substances across the plasma membrane.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement about plant and animal cells. Endocytosis and exocytosis are not exclusive to plant or animal cells; both processes occur in a wide variety of eukaryotic cells.
Step 5: Compare the descriptions provided in the question to identify the correct answer. The main difference between endocytosis and exocytosis is that endocytosis moves substances into the cell, while exocytosis moves substances out of the cell.