3.3.1 Surface Area to Volume Ratio

Question 1

Describe the relationship between surface area to volume ratio and metabolic rate for a smaller organism.

Answer 1

1. (Smaller so) larger surface area to volume ratio;
2. More heat loss (per gram)
3. Faster rate of respiration, releases more heat

Question 2

Explain the advantage for larger animals of having a
specialised system that facilitates oxygen uptake.

Answer 2

1. Large(r) organisms have a small(er) surface
   area:volume (ratio);
   OR
   Small(er) organisms have a large(r) surface area:volume
   (ratio);
2. Overcomes long diffusion pathway
   OR
   Faster diffusion