Biology 1.3 || Specialised Cells

The Main 6 Specialised cells gulp………..

What does the Sperm Cell do?

Fertilise the female egg cell

What are the four key adaptations of the sperm cell?

• Tail ( for swimming)

• Lots of mitochondria (energy)

• Acrosome head (enzymes to break into egg)

• Haploid

What do nerve cells do?

Carry rapid electrical impulses

What are the three key adaptations of the Nerve cell?

• Long Axon: Travels long distances

• Dendrites: Branches to connect cells

• Myelin Sheath: Insulation to speed up signal

What do muscle cells do?

Contract and relax for movement

What are the key adaptations for muscle cells?

• Protein Bands: Slide over each other to contract

• Mitochondria (a lot): Energy for contraction

What do red blood cells do?

Transport oxygen

What are the key adaptations for red blood cells?

• Biconcave shape (high surface area)

• No nucleus (more space for haemoglobin)

• Packed with haemoglobin (binds oxygen)

What do root hair cells do?

Absorb mineral ions and water from soils

What are the key adaptations for root hair cells?

• Long extension (high surface area)

• Lots of mitochondria (energy for active transport)

• No chloroplasts (underground/no light)

What does the xylem cell do?

Transport water and minerals up the plant

what are the key adaptations of a xylem?

• Hollow, dead tubes (continuous straw)

• Lignin walls (strengthens against water pressure)

what does the phloem cell do?

Transport dissolved sugars up and down the plant

what are the key adaptations of the phloem cell?

• Sieve plates (pores for food flow)

• Companion cells (provide energy via mitochondria)

What do the ciliated cells do?

Waft and push mucus away from the lungs

What are the key adaptations of the ciliated cells?

• Hair-like cilia (beat rhythmically to move dust/bacteria away).

• Lots of mitochondria (provides energy for cilia movement).