Cell Size and Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio and diffusion

dumb dumb and dumber

Why are most cells small?

Small size ensures an efficient surface area-to-volume ratio (SA:V), allowing for better nutrient intake and waste removal.

Effect of Cell Size on SA:V

As a cell grows, SA:V decreases, reducing the efficiency of diffusion.

Why does a low SA:V ratio cause problems?

larger cells struggle to obtain nutrients and remove waste quickly enough. Diffusion becomes too slow to sustain metabolism.

How do large cells adapt?

Giant algal cells: Have large vacuoles that push cytoplasm closer to the membrane, reducing diffusion distance.

Factors Affecting Diffusion Rate

Concentration Gradient, Temperature, Surface Area and Distance

How do cells maintain diffusion efficiency?

Cytoplasmic streaming (movement of cytoplasm) in plant cells keeps concentration gradients steep, Circulatory system in animals removes oxygen quickly and transports waste (e.g., CO₂), increasing diffusion efficiency, Inside cells, converting diffused substances into other forms lowers their concentration, allowing more diffusion.

why are cells that increase in size an issue for living cells

Decreased Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio, slower diffusion rates, increased demand for resources and difficult cell communication.

What is diffusion

diffusion is the movement of particles from an area of a higher concentration gradient to an area of lower concentration to reach equilibrium

   Explain why diffusion is an essential process for cell survival

diffusion crucial for cell survival, playing a crucial role in nutrient uptake, gas exchange, waste elimination, and overall cellular homeostasis