What is the term for the cell extension described as a 'false foot' that can pull the cell forward or draw in objects toward the cell?

• A. Pseudopod
• B. Flagellum
• C. Cilium
• D. Microfilament

Answer: (A)

The movement relies on temporary extensions of the cell’s cytoplasm that act like little feet. This 'false foot' is called a pseudopod. It forms when actin filaments polymerize at the leading edge, pushing the membrane outward so the cell can extend forward and pull itself along, and it can also wrap around and ingest particles through phagocytosis. The other structures are different: a flagellum is a long tail used for propulsion, a cilium is a shorter projection that moves fluids or the cell, and a microfilament is part of the cytoskeleton, not a protruding extension. So the term that describes this extending, crawling projection is pseudopod.