What describes a cell that has two or more nuclei?

Prepare for the IB Diploma Biology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

A cell that has two or more nuclei is described as multinucleate. This term specifically refers to cells containing multiple nuclei within a single membrane, which often occurs in certain types of cells, such as muscle fibers (myofibers) and some fungal cells. In these instances, the presence of multiple nuclei can facilitate the coordination of activities across the larger cell structure, supporting their specialized functions.

Multicellular refers to organisms composed of more than one cell, but it does not specifically indicate anything about the number of nuclei within a single cell. Multipotent refers to the potential of stem cells to differentiate into multiple cell types but does not relate to the number of nuclei. Motile describes organisms or cells that can move independently, which is not directly related to their nuclear composition. Thus, the term multinucleate is the most accurate descriptor for a cell characterized by having two or more nuclei.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy