Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
The term 'assimilation' in the context of cell signaling is defined as:
A
The movement of ions across a membrane to generate an action potential.
B
The incorporation of nutrients and molecules into cellular structures after their uptake.
C
The transmission of signals from the cell surface to the nucleus.
D
The breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones to release energy.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'assimilation' in a biological context. Assimilation refers to the process by which cells incorporate nutrients and molecules into their structures after these substances have been taken up by the cell.
Step 2: Analyze the provided options to identify which one aligns with the definition of assimilation. The correct option should describe the incorporation of nutrients and molecules into cellular structures.
Step 3: Eliminate options that do not match the definition of assimilation. For example, the movement of ions across a membrane to generate an action potential is related to electrical signaling, not assimilation.
Step 4: Similarly, the transmission of signals from the cell surface to the nucleus pertains to signal transduction, and the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones to release energy describes catabolism, neither of which are related to assimilation.
Step 5: Confirm that the correct answer is: 'The incorporation of nutrients and molecules into cellular structures after their uptake,' as this matches the biological definition of assimilation.