a white blood cell engulfing a bacterium is an example of _____.
a white blood cell engulfing a bacterium is an example of _____.
Answer: A white blood cell engulfing a bacterium is an example of phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is a cellular process by which certain cells, such as white blood cells (specifically phagocytes like neutrophils and macrophages), engulf and digest particles or pathogens, including bacteria. In this process, the cell membrane surrounds the particle, forming a vesicle called a phagosome, which is then fused with lysosomes containing enzymes to break down the engulfed material. This mechanism is a crucial part of the immune system’s defense against infections and foreign invaders.