4.1.1.4 Cell Differentiation

Question 1

What is differentiation?

Answer 1

• the process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job

Question 2

What happens when a cell changes?

Answer 2

• they develop different subcellular structures
• turn into different types of cells
• allows them to carry out a specific function

Question 3

When does differentiation occur?

Answer 3

• as an organism develops

Question 4

When does differentiation happen in most animal cells?

Answer 4

• at an early stage
• is lost after they become specialised

Question 5

When does differentiation occur in plant cells?

Answer 5

• doesn’t stop
• don’t lose the ability to differentiate

Question 6

What are the cells that differentiate in mature animals mainly used for

Answer 6

• repairing
• replacing cells (like skin or blood)

Question 7

What are undifferentiated cells called?

Answer 7

• stem cells