B1- Cell Differentiation And Specialisation Flashcards
What is the process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job?
Differentiation
Differentiation allows cells to develop different subcellular structures to carry out specific functions.
What happens to most animal cells’ ability to differentiate after they become specialised?
It is lost at an early stage.
In contrast, many plant cells retain the ability to differentiate throughout their life.
What type of cells are primarily responsible for repairing and replacing tissues in mature animals?
Differentiated cells
Examples include skin and blood cells.
What are stem cells?
Undifferentiated cells.
Stem cells have the potential to differentiate into various cell types.
What is the main function of sperm cells?
To get the male DNA to the female DNA.
Sperm cells have adaptations like a long tail and enzymes to aid in reproduction.
What is the primary function of nerve cells?
To carry electrical signals from one part of the body to another.
Nerve cells are long and have branched connections for forming networks.
What is the function of muscle cells?
To contract quickly.
Muscle cells are long and contain many mitochondria for energy.
What is the function of root hair cells?
To absorb water and minerals.
Root hair cells increase surface area for absorption by growing into long ‘hairs’.
What do phloem and xylem cells transport?
Substances such as food and water.
Phloem cells transport food, while xylem cells transport water.
Fill in the blank: Phloem and xylem cells form _______ to transport substances.
tubes
The cells are long and joined end to end to create these transport structures.
True or False: Xylem cells are hollow in the center.
True
This hollow structure allows for efficient water transport.
