Cell Size AP Bio

Front

What is the SA:V ratio?

Back

The surface area to volume ratio (SA:V ratio) is a measure that describes how much surface area a cell has relative to its volume. A higher SA:V ratio indicates more surface area available for exchange processes.

Front

Why is a high SA:V ratio important for cells?

Back

A high SA:V ratio is important because it allows for more efficient exchange of materials (like nutrients and waste) across the cell membrane, which is crucial for cell survival and function.

Front

What happens to the SA:V ratio as a cell increases in size?

Back

As a cell increases in size, its volume increases faster than its surface area, leading to a lower SA:V ratio, which can hinder efficient exchange.

Front

How do you calculate the SA:V ratio?

Back

To calculate the SA:V ratio, divide the surface area of the cell by its volume. For example, if a cell has a surface area of 6 cm² and a volume of 4 cm³, the SA:V ratio is 6/4 = 1.5.

Front

What is the relationship between cell size and metabolic rate?

Back

Generally, smaller cells have a higher metabolic rate per unit volume than larger cells due to their higher SA:V ratio, allowing for more efficient nutrient uptake and waste removal.

Front

Which type of cells typically have a higher SA:V ratio: prokaryotic or eukaryotic?

Back

Prokaryotic cells typically have a higher SA:V ratio compared to eukaryotic cells because they are generally smaller and simpler in structure.

Front

What is one adaptation that cells can have to increase their SA:V ratio?

Back

Cells can develop extensions or folds in their membranes, such as microvilli in intestinal cells, to increase their surface area without significantly increasing their volume.

Front

Why do larger organisms have specialized cells and systems?

Back

Larger organisms have specialized cells and systems to overcome the limitations of a low SA:V ratio, ensuring efficient transport and exchange of materials throughout their bodies.

Front

What is the significance of the SA:V ratio in relation to cell division?

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During cell division, the SA:V ratio increases as the cell splits into smaller cells, which helps maintain efficient exchange processes in the daughter cells.

Front

How does the shape of a cell affect its SA:V ratio?

Back

The shape of a cell can significantly affect its SA:V ratio; for example, elongated or flattened cells can have a higher SA:V ratio compared to spherical cells of the same volume.