2.1.5 Cell Differentiation

Question 1

What is cell differentiation?

Answer 1

• When cells become specialised to perform a specific function.
• Cell’s structure changes to become more efficient and to perform its function better
• some cells become specialised so they can only perform 1 function (nerve cells, red blood cells, fat cells)

Question 2

How is a sperm cell adapted to transfer genetic material from the male to the ovum?

Answer 2

• flagellum to propel
• lots of mitochondria so flagellum can move
• acrosome to store digestive enzymes which break down outer layers of ovum

Question 3

How is a fat cell specialised to store fat?

Answer 3

• small layer of cytoplasm surrounding fat reservoir

- can expand up to 1000X original size as they fill with fat

Question 4

How is a red blood cell adapted to transport oxygen around the body?

Answer 4

• bioconcave disc shape to increase SA:V, speeds up diffusion
• full off haemoglobin to bind to oxygen
• no nucleus for more space for haemoglobin

Question 5

How are palisade cells adapted to carry out photosynthesis?

Answer 5

• near surface of leaf for easier access to sunlight
• packed full of chloroplast and they contain chlorophyll absorb sunlight
• regular shape to allow close packing within leaf to maximise absorbation of sunlight

Question 6

How are dilated cells specialised?

Answer 6

-cilia(tiny hairs) to sweep up mucus away from lungs to the back of the throat