Cell Size Limitations Flashcard

Front

What is the surface area to volume ratio?

Back

The ratio of the surface area of a cell to its volume, which affects the cell's ability to exchange materials with its environment.

Front

How does the surface area to volume ratio change as cell size increases?

Back

The surface area to volume ratio decreases as cell size increases.

Front

Why is a high surface area to volume ratio beneficial for cells?

Back

A high surface area to volume ratio allows for more efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products.

Front

What happens to a cell's ability to exchange materials as it grows larger?

Back

As a cell grows larger, its ability to efficiently exchange materials decreases due to a lower surface area to volume ratio.

Front

What is the significance of maintaining an optimal surface area to volume ratio?

Back

Maintaining an optimal surface area to volume ratio is crucial for ensuring efficient metabolic processes and cellular functions.

Front

How does cell size impact metabolic rates?

Back

Larger cells may have slower metabolic rates due to reduced efficiency in material exchange.

Front

What is one consequence of a cell becoming too large?

Back

If a cell becomes too large, it may not be able to take in enough nutrients or expel waste effectively.

Front

What is the relationship between cell size and the rate of diffusion?

Back

As cell size increases, the rate of diffusion of substances into and out of the cell may decrease.

Front

Why do many cells remain small?

Back

Many cells remain small to maintain a high surface area to volume ratio, facilitating efficient exchange of materials.

Front

What is one adaptation that some larger cells have to overcome size limitations?

Back

Some larger cells may develop specialized structures, such as folds or extensions, to increase surface area.