Which cellular structure is primarily responsible for storing wastes and other materials?

The vacuole is primarily responsible for storing wastes and other materials within a cell. Vacuoles are membrane-bound sacs found in both plant and animal cells, though they are typically larger and more prominent in plant cells. These structures serve multiple functions, including the storage of nutrients, waste products, and materials needed by the cell, as well as contributing to maintaining turgor pressure in plant cells, which helps keep them rigid and structurally sound.

In plant cells, vacuoles can occupy most of the cell's interior, allowing them to store a variety of substances. In contrast, while vesicles also serve roles in transport and storage, they are smaller than vacuoles and are involved more in moving materials within the cell rather than long-term storage.

Centrioles play a different role altogether, primarily involved in cell division by helping organize the microtubules that separate chromosomes. The nucleus, while vital for housing genetic material and controlling cellular functions, does not function in the storage of waste or other materials. Thus, the vacuole is distinctly suited for the task of storage among these cellular structures.