Humber Admissions Practice Test

Cilia are used primarily for what purpose?

1. Energy production

2. Cell division

3. Locomotion and movement

4. Cell communication

The correct answer is: Locomotion and movement

Cilia are small, hair-like structures that extend from the surface of many types of eukaryotic cells. Their primary purpose is to facilitate locomotion and movement. Cilia can move in a coordinated, wave-like fashion, allowing single-celled organisms to swim in their environment. In multicellular organisms, cilia play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including sweeping mucus and other substances across epithelial surfaces, such as those lining the respiratory tract. For instance, in the respiratory system, cilia help to move mucus, which traps dust and pathogens, up towards the throat where it can be swallowed or expelled. This function is vital for maintaining clear airways and overall respiratory health. Thus, their primary role is clearly associated with movement and locomotion, which encompasses both the movement of individual cells and the movement of fluids over cell surfaces.