B2.1.5 Cell Differentiation

Question 1

Define cell differentiation

Answer 1

The process by which cells become specialised to perform specific functions in an organism

Question 2

How are sperm cells specialised to their function

Answer 2

Large flagellum for movement
Acrosome to digest the egg membrane
Lots of mitochondria for energy
Haploid nucleus

Question 3

How are nerve cells specialised to carry impulses

Answer 3

Long axon to transport the impulse long distances
Contain extensions to connect to other nerve cells and contain neurotransmitters to transmit the impulse

Question 4

How are root hair cells specialised to take up water and minerals

Answer 4

Have lots of mitochondria to generate energy
Large surface area for increased rate of mineral ions absorption through active transport
Thin cell wall reduces barrier to transport

Question 5

How are red blood cells specialised to adapt to their function

Answer 5

Biconcave discs- increases surface area to volume ratio, speeding up diffusion of o2 into cell and co2 out of cell
Packed full of haemoglobin- protein binds to oxygen to form oxyhaemoglobin
No nucleus so more space for more haemoglobin molecules

Question 6

How are ciliated cells adapted for their specific function

Answer 6

In between them are goblet cells which produce sticky mucus- trapping dirt and bacteria
Cilia on top of cells sweep mucus away from lungs back into throat- then swallow mucus, any bacteria present are killed in your stomach

Question 7

How are palisade cells adapted to a function

Answer 7

Packed full of chloroplasts
Regular shape to allow close packing within the leaf, maximising the absorption of sunlight