Cell Size and Surface Area to Volume Ratio

Flashcards covering key concepts related to cell size, surface area to volume ratio, and their implications for cellular function based on the provided lecture notes.

What fundamental process depends on cell size?

Cellular metabolism.

What becomes difficult for a cell when it reaches a certain size regarding its plasma membrane?

It becomes too difficult to regulate what comes in and what goes out, and to dissipate thermal energy.

Why do cells need a high surface area-to-volume ratio?

To optimize the exchange of material through the plasma membrane.

What is the formula for the total surface area of a single cuboidal cell with side length 'S'?

Total SA = 6S²

What is the formula for the volume of a single cuboidal cell with side length 'S'?

V = S³

What is the formula for the surface area of a spherical cell with radius 'r'?

SA = 4πr²

What is the formula for the volume of a spherical cell with radius 'r'?

V = 4/3πr³

How does increasing the radius affect the surface area-to-volume ratio in spherical cells?

As the radius increases, the ratio of surface area to volume decreases.

Why do cells tend to be small?

Small cells have a high surface area-to-volume ratio, which optimizes the exchange of materials at the plasma membrane.

What happens to the efficiency of material exchange in larger cells?

Larger cells have a lower surface area-to-volume ratio, which makes them lose efficiency in exchanging materials.

What are the consequences of a lower surface area-to-volume ratio in larger cells?

The cellular demand for resources increases, and the rate of heat exchange decreases.