1.2 Specialized Cells, Tissues And Organs

Question 1

What is a specialized cell?

Answer 1

A specialized cell is one that has developed certain characteristics to perform a specific function

Question 2

What is the function of a ciliated cell?

Answer 2

The function of a ciliated cell is to move mucus in the trachea and bronchi.

Question 3

How is a ciliated cell adapted to its function?

Answer 3

Ciliated cells have hair-like structures called cilia that beat to move mucus and trapped particles out of the trachea.

Question 4

What is the function of a nerve cell?

Answer 4

To conduct impulses

Question 5

How is a nerve cell adapted to its function?

Answer 5

• Long to run between body parts and the central nervous system
• Has extensions for communication
• insulated axon for faster transmission

Question 6

What is the function of a red blood cell?

Answer 6

To transport oxygen

Question 7

How is a red blood cell adapted to its function?

Answer 7

• It has a Biconcave shape for increased surface area
• Contains haemoglobin to carry oxygen
• Lacks a nucleus to maximize space for oxygen

Question 8

What is the function of a sperm cell?

Answer 8

Reproduction

Question 9

How is a sperm cell adapted to its function?

Answer 9

• Has a head with genetic material
• Has an acrosome with enzymes for egg penetration
• Has many mitochondria in the mid-piece for energy

Question 10

What is the function of an egg cell?

Answer 10

Reproduction

Question 11

How is an egg cell adapted to its function?

Answer 11

• Contains cytoplasm with nutrients for early embryo growth
• Has a haploid nucleus
• A membrane that changes after fertilization to prevent further sperm entry

Question 12

What is the function of a root hair cell?

Answer 12

To absorb water and minerals from the soil

Question 13

How is a root hair cell adapted to its function?

Answer 13

• Extended surface area for absorption
• Thin walls for quick water movement
• Lacks chloroplasts

Question 14

What is the function of a xylem vessel?

Answer 14

To conduct water through the plant and provide support

Question 15

How is a xylem vessel adapted to its function?

Answer 15

• Has no top or bottom cell walls for continuous water flow
• Dead cells for a smooth stream
• Lignin-thickened walls for structural support

Question 16

What is the function of a palisade mesophyll cell?

Answer 16

Photosynthesis

Question 17

How is a palisade mesophyll cell adapted to its function?

Answer 17

• Column shaped for maximum sunlight absorption
• Contains many chloroplasts

Question 18

What is the basic functional and structural unit in a living organism?

Answer 18

The cell

Question 19

What is a tissue?

Answer 19

A group of cells with similar structure working together to perform the same function.

Question 20

What is an organ?

Answer 20

Different tissues working together to perform a specific function

Question 21

What is an organ system?

Answer 21

Group of organs with related functions working together to perform body functions

Question 22

What is the formula for magnification?

Answer 22

Magnification = image size/actual size

Question 23

How do you calculate image size?

Answer 23

Image size = magnification x actual size

Question 24

How do you calculate actual size?

Answer 24

Actual size = image size/magnification

Question 25

Compare and contrast the adaptations of a RBC and a SC?

Answer 25

• Both RBC and SC are specialized for their functions.
• RBC have a Biconcave shape to increase surface area and lack a nucleus to carry more oxygen
• SC have a head with genetic material, enzymes for penetrating the egg, and many mitochondria for energy.
• RBC are for O2 transport, SC are for reproduction

Question 26

Explain how ciliated cells are adapted to perform their role effectively in the respiratory system?

Answer 26

• Hair-like cilia beat rhythmically to transport mucus which helps to keep the airways clear of debris and pathogens