Cell Size

Surface Area

The amount of surface covering the outer part of the cell, allowing for more functions to be performed simultaneously.

Volume

The total amount of space that the entire cell occupies.

SA:V Ratio

The ratio of surface area to volume; a larger ratio indicates greater efficiency in diffusion, transport, and exchange of materials.

Efficient Diffusion

A larger SA:V ratio leads to more efficient diffusion, while a smaller ratio results in less efficiency.

Projections that increase Surface Area

Features such as root hairs, villi, and microvilli that enhance cellular efficiency.

Formula for Surface Area of a Sphere

SA = 4πr².

Formula for Volume of a Sphere

V = 4/3πr³.

Volume of Rectangular Solid

V = lwh.

Surface Area of a Rectangular Solid

SA = 2lh + 2lw + 2wh.

SA of a Cylinder

SA = 2πrh + 2πr².

Volume of a Cylinder

V = πr²h.

Surface Area of a Cube

SA = 6s².

Volume of a Cube

V = s³.

Importance of Larger Surface Area

A larger surface area is necessary for proper absorption and efficient exchange of materials.

Internal Resource Demand

As cells increase in volume, the surface area decreases while the demand for internal resources increases.