Which type of endocytosis involves the ingestion of large particles?

The correct choice refers to phagocytosis, which is a specific type of endocytosis responsible for the ingestion of large particles, such as bacteria, dead cells, and other substantial debris. During phagocytosis, cells, particularly specialized immune cells like macrophages and neutrophils, extend their plasma membrane around the large particle, engulfing it and forming a phagosome. This phagosome then typically fuses with lysosomes, leading to the degradation and digestion of the ingested material.

Other forms of endocytosis, such as pinocytosis, involve the uptake of small particles and liquids and are often referred to as "cell drinking." Receptor-mediated endocytosis is a more selective process that generally involves the binding of specific molecules to receptors on the cell membrane, leading to the internalization of smaller quantities of targeted substances. Exocytosis, on the other hand, is the process by which substances are expelled from a cell, often involving the fusion of vesicles with the plasma membrane rather than the ingestion of material.