Cell Size Limitations Flashcard

Front

What is the surface area to volume ratio?

Back

The surface area to volume ratio is the ratio of the cell's surface area to its volume, which is crucial for understanding cell size limitations.

Front

How does cell size affect the surface area to volume ratio?

Back

As cell size increases, the surface area to volume ratio decreases.

Front

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

Back

A high surface area to volume ratio allows for more efficient exchange of materials with the environment.

Front

What are the implications of a low surface area to volume ratio in cells?

Back

A low surface area to volume ratio can limit the cell's ability to efficiently exchange materials with its environment.

Front

How does the surface area to volume ratio influence cell size limitations?

Back

The surface area to volume ratio affects the rate of exchange of materials with the environment, thus influencing cell size limitations.

Front

What happens to the surface area to volume ratio as a cell grows larger?

Back

The surface area to volume ratio decreases as the cell grows larger.

Front

Why can't cells grow indefinitely large?

Back

Cells cannot grow indefinitely large due to limitations in the surface area to volume ratio, which affects material exchange.

Front

What is one consequence of a cell being too large?

Back

A consequence of a cell being too large is that it may not be able to take in nutrients or expel waste efficiently.

Front

How does the shape of a cell affect its surface area to volume ratio?

Back

The shape of a cell can influence its surface area to volume ratio; for example, elongated or flattened shapes can increase the ratio.

Front

What is the relationship between cell size and metabolic activity?

Back

Smaller cells generally have higher metabolic activity per unit volume due to a higher surface area to volume ratio.