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  • Cilia & Flagella: Understanding Hair-like Structures on Cells
    Hairlike projections on the outside of cells are called cilia or flagella, depending on their length and movement.

    * Cilia are short, hair-like structures that move in a coordinated, wave-like motion. They are found in many different types of cells, including those lining the respiratory tract, where they help to move mucus and debris.

    * Flagella are longer, whip-like structures that move in a more forceful, propeller-like motion. They are typically found on single-celled organisms, such as bacteria and sperm cells, and are used for locomotion.

    Here's a breakdown:

    Cilia:

    * Short and numerous

    * Wave-like movement

    * Function: Move fluids, particles, or the cell itself

    * Examples: lining of respiratory tract, fallopian tubes

    Flagella:

    * Long and few in number (typically one or two)

    * Propeller-like movement

    * Function: Locomotion

    * Examples: bacteria, sperm cells

    Both cilia and flagella are important structures that play a vital role in the function of many different cells.

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