Biology 17.1 Cell Growth, Division, and Reproduction

Biology Quizzes Study Guide

Surface Area to Volume Ratio:

As a cell gets larger in size, the volume grows faster than the surface area, this leads to inefficiencies in nutrient uptake and waste removal.

Diffusion Limitations:

Larger cells may experience slower diffusion rates for substances like oxygen and nutrients.

Structural Control:

A larger cell may face challenges in maintaining structural integrity this is due to increased cytoplasmic pressure, this can lead to cell lysis.

Genetic control:

A larger cell may require more genetic material to manage its increased volumes, leading to potential issues in gene expression and regulation.

Energy Demand:

Increased size often correlates with higher energy demands, which can strain the cells metabolic pathways and energy production capabilities.

Cell division challenges:

Larger cells may have difficulty undergoing mitosis and cytokinesis, as the processes require precise coordination of cellular components.

Sexual Reproduction:

Involves the combination of two parents, this leads to genetic diversity.

Asexual Reproduction:

Involves a single organism producing offspring genetically identical to itself, which can be advantagous in stable environments where adaption is less critical. Asexual reproduction advantages: Faster reproduction rates, more energy and time, no need for a mate. Disadvantages: Lack of genetic diversity, this can make populations more vulnerable to diseases.

Reproductive Strategies Table:

Feature	Sexual Reproduction	Asexual Reproduction
Genetic Variation	High	Low
Speed of Reproduction	Slower	Faster
Energy Requirement	Higher	Lower
Adaptability to Environment	High	Low
Mating Requirement	Yes	No

DNA Replication:

This occurs in the S phase and it must duplicate the DNA to ensure that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic instructions.

Organelle Duplication:

Key organelles, such as mitochondria and ribosomes, must be duplicated to provide the necessary machinery for daughter cells.

Cytoplasmic Components:

The cytoplasm and its components, including proteins and enzymes, need to be evenly distributed between two daughter cells.

Cell membrane preparation:

The cell membrane must be prepared for division, which includes the synthesis of new membrane materials to accommodate the growing daughter cells.

Energy Reserves:

Cells must ensure they have sufficient energy Reserves (ATP) to support the processes of division and the initial growth of daughter cells.