1.2 - Cell Specialisation Flashcards
What is the function of a Sperm Cell?
To deliver genetic material to an egg cell in order to fertilise it.
What are 5 adaptations of a Sperm Cell and their functions?
- Half as much Genetic Material so it will combine with the egg’s to form a normal cells worth.
- Flagellum to help swim through the uterus and fallopian tube to reach the egg.
- Streamlined to help swim along.
- Mitochondria to provide energy required for swimming.
- Digestive Enzymes used to break a hole into the egg cell when the sperm reaches it.
What is the function of a Nerve Cell?
To send electrical impulses around the body.
What are 4 adaptations of a Nerve Cell and their functions?
- Long Axon which carries electrical impulses from one part of the body to another.
- Myelin Sheath which insulates the axon and speeds up the transmission of nerve impulses.
- Synapses which allow the impulse to pass from one nerve cell to another.
- Dendrites which increase the surface area so that other nerve cells can connect more easily.
What is the function of a Muscle Cell?
To contract (get shorter)
What are 2 adaptations of a Muscle Cell and their functions?
- Contain Protein Fibres which can change length and shorten when muscles contract.
- Many Mitochondria to provide energy for muscle contraction.
What is the function of a Red Blood Cell?
To carry Oxygen around the body.
What are 3 adaptations of a Red Blood Cell and their functions?
- Biconcave Shape to increase surface area to help carry more oxygen.
- No Nucleus to create more space for oxygen.
- Haemoglobin which is what the oxygen binds to.
What is the function of a Root Hair Cell?
To absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
What are 2 adaptations of a Root Hair Cell and their functions?
- Root Hair to increase the surface area of the root.
- Do not contain Chloroplasts because they are underground and cannot photosynthesise.
What is the function of a Xylem Cell?
To carry water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves of a plant.
What are 3 adaptations of a Xylem Cell and their functions?
- Very thick walls containing lignin to provide support to the plant.
- The end walls between the cells are broken down so the cells form a long tube so water and dissolved minerals can flow easily.
- No Internal Structures, making it easier for water and minerals to flow.
What is the function of a Phloem Cell?
To carry dissolved sugars up and down a plant.
What are 3 adaptations of a Phloem Cell and their functions?
- Sieve Plates in Phloem Vessel Cells, which allow dissolved sugars to move through the cell interior.
- Phloem Vessel Cells have companion cells connected by pores.
- Mitochondria in the companion cell provide energy to the phloem vessel cell.
