Process by which amoeba and white blood cells obtain food

Answer 1

Amoeba and white blood cells obtain food through a process called phagocytosis, which is a type of endocytosis. Here’s how it works for each:

Amoeba

1. Detection: The amoeba detects food particles, such as bacteria or organic matter, in its environment.

2. Engulfing: The cell's membrane extends outward and surrounds the food particle, forming temporary extensions called pseudopodia (false feet).

3. Formation of Food Vacuole: Once the food particle is completely surrounded, the amoeba's membrane pinches off, creating a food vacuole.

4. Digestion: Enzymes are secreted into the food vacuole, breaking down the food into smaller molecules that the amoeba can absorb.

5. Absorption: The nutrients are taken up into the cytoplasm of the amoeba, and the waste products remain in the vacuole.

6. Excretion: Waste materials are eventually expelled from the amoeba through a process called exocytosis.

White Blood Cells (Phagocytes)

1. Detection: White blood cells, particularly phagocytes like macrophages and neutrophils, detect pathogens (like bacteria or viruses) through receptor sites on their surface.

2. Engulfing: Similar to amoebas, white blood cells extend their cell membrane to surround the pathogen using pseudopodia.

3. Formation of Phagosome: The pathogen is enclosed within a phagosome, which is a specialized type of vesicle.

4. Digestion: The phagosome then fuses with lysosomes, which contain digestive enzymes. This fusion forms a phagolysosome.

5. Destruction: The enzymes break down the pathogen into smaller, harmless components.

6. Excretion: The debris produced from the digestion is then expelled from the white blood cell via exocytosis.

Both processes highlight the ability of these cells to engulf and digest material, allowing them to obtain nutrients and defend against infections.