The core of the cilium/ flagellum is composed of

Options

A. 10 pairs of microtubules
B. 2 pairs of microtubules
C. 9 pairs of microtubules
D. 11 pairs of microtubules

Answer

To answer the question about the composition of the core of cilia and flagella, we can break down the information step by step:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Cilia and Flagella**:
- Cilia and flagella are structures that facilitate movement in various organisms. Cilia are numerous and short, while flagella are fewer and longer.

2. **Identifying the Core Structure**:
- The core of cilia and flagella is referred to as the "axoneme." This is the structural framework that supports these organelles.

3. **Microtubule Arrangement**:
- The axoneme is composed of microtubules. Specifically, it has a characteristic arrangement of microtubules.

4. **Counting the Microtubule Pairs**:
- The axoneme consists of 9 outer pairs of microtubules, known as "doublets." Each pair is made up of two microtubules.
- In addition to these 9 pairs, there is 1 central pair of microtubules.

5. **Total Count of Microtubules**:
- Therefore, the total number of microtubules in the axoneme is 9 pairs (outer doublets) plus 1 central pair, which gives us a total of 10 pairs of microtubules.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Thus, the core of the cilium or flagellum is composed of **10 pairs of microtubules**.

### Final Answer:
The core of the cilium/flagellum is composed of **10 pairs of microtubules**.

---