Endocytosis — Science definition
Bulk transport in which the membrane wraps around material and pulls it into the cell inside a vesicle.
Where it is taught
- Cellular Transport — Cells, Membranes & Exchange, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
In endocytosis, the membrane bulges inward around the material and pinches off a vesicle, swallowing it whole (this is how some white blood cells eat invaders).
Cellular Transport
Questions using endocytosis
Problem 1
Explain the difference between endocytosis and exocytosis.
Answer and explanation
In endocytosis, the membrane wraps around material and pulls it into the cell inside a vesicle (bringing things in). In exocytosis, a vesicle fuses with the membrane and releases its contents outside the cell (sending things out). Both move large amounts of material and require energy.