Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which type of eukaryotic cell commonly possesses cilia that move dust and other particles away from the respiratory tract?
A
Hepatocytes (liver cells)
B
Epithelial cells lining the trachea
C
Red blood cells
D
Skeletal muscle cells
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of cilia: Cilia are hair-like structures on the surface of certain eukaryotic cells. They are involved in movement, either moving the cell itself or moving substances along the surface of the cell. In the respiratory system, cilia help to move mucus, dust, and other particles out of the airways.
Identify the location of cilia in the respiratory system: Cilia are commonly found on the surface of epithelial cells lining the trachea and other parts of the respiratory tract. These cells form a protective barrier and help in clearing debris from the airways.
Eliminate options that do not have cilia: Hepatocytes (liver cells) are involved in metabolism and detoxification but do not have cilia. Red blood cells are specialized for oxygen transport and lack cilia. Skeletal muscle cells are involved in voluntary movement and also do not have cilia.
Focus on epithelial cells lining the trachea: These cells are specifically adapted to have cilia that beat in a coordinated manner to move mucus and trapped particles upward toward the throat, where they can be swallowed or expelled.
Conclude that epithelial cells lining the trachea are the correct type of eukaryotic cell that possesses cilia for this function, as they are uniquely suited to protect the respiratory tract from dust and other particles.