Which of the following best describes a cell that can adapt to perform various functions?

A specialized cell is one that has unique structures and functions tailored to perform specific roles within an organism. These cells undergo differentiation, which means they develop characteristics that make them particularly effective at their designated jobs, such as transporting oxygen, conducting nerve impulses, or contracting for movement.

While muscle cells are indeed specialized for contraction and movement, they do not represent the broader concept of a cell being able to adapt to perform various functions. General cell might imply a lesser function or compromise on specialization, while all-purpose cell suggests a versatility that is not typically descriptive of biological cells since each cell type is designed for particular tasks. Therefore, the notion of specialization directly aligns with the ability to adapt for distinct functions, making it the most accurate description in this context.