What is the process by which a cell engulfs large solid particles or foreign matter by wrapping its cell membrane around it?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Phagocytosis involves the active cellular engulfment of large solid particles or foreign pathogens through the extension of the plasma membrane into pseudopodia. Pinocytosis refers to cellular drinking of extracellular fluid containing dissolved molecules, whereas exocytosis describes the outward transport of substances from the cell. White blood cells utilize phagocytosis extensively to destroy invading bacteria and clear cellular debris.