Question

What is the movement of cytoplasm within a cell called?

• A. Diffusion
• B. Osmosis
• C. Cytoplasmic streaming (Cyclosis)
• D. Active transport

Hint:

Cyclosis = Cytoplasmic streaming. It helps circulate nutrients, organelles, and metabolites inside large cells, especially plant cells.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Cytoplasmic streaming, also known as cyclosis, refers to the continuous movement of the cytoplasm within a living cell. This movement helps distribute nutrients, organelles, and other substances throughout the cell. It is particularly noticeable in large plant cells where materials must be transported efficiently across relatively long intracellular distances.

Step 1: Understanding cytoplasmic streaming. During cyclosis, the cytoplasm flows in a directed manner around the vacuole or along the cell membrane. This movement helps in:
• Transporting nutrients and metabolites
• Distributing organelles within the cell
• Maintaining cellular metabolism

Step 2: Mechanism behind cytoplasmic streaming. The movement occurs due to the interaction between cytoskeletal elements (especially actin filaments) and motor proteins that generate force for cytoplasmic movement.

Step 3: Example. Cytoplasmic streaming is prominently observed in plant cells such as those of Elodea and Chara. Thus, the movement of cytoplasm within a cell is called cytoplasmic streaming or cyclosis.