Combined Science GCSE
Phagocytosis
What Phagocytosis means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Phagocytosis
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Phagocytosis in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A defence mechanism in which a white blood cell engulfs a pathogen and digests it.
The process in which phagocytes engulf a pathogen and digest it using enzymes.
The process by which a white blood cell engulfs and digests a pathogen.
Topics that use Phagocytosis
- Human defence systems (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Antigen-antibody binding
- Antigen–antibody binding
- Cartilage rings
- Cilia action
- Digestion and defence in the stomach
- Immunity and memory cells
- Immunological memory
- Non-specific defence
Using Phagocytosis in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Combined Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Combined Science GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge