Here's a breakdown:

* Pseudopodia: These are temporary projections of the cell membrane that extend outwards, acting like "arms" to reach and surround the particle.

* Engulfment: Once the pseudopodia have enclosed the particle, the cell membrane fuses, trapping the particle within a membrane-bound vesicle called a phagosome.

Phagocytosis is a vital process for:

* Immune defense: White blood cells, like macrophages and neutrophils, use phagocytosis to engulf and destroy pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

* Cellular cleanup: Cells use phagocytosis to remove debris and old or damaged cells.

Let me know if you'd like to know more about phagocytosis!