Cell Differentiation And Specialisation Flashcards
What is differentiation?
Differentiation is the process by which a cell changes to become specialised for its job
As cells change what do they develop ?
As cells change they develop different sub cellular structures and turn into different type of cells. This allows them to carry out specific functions
What are undifferentiated cells called ?
Undifferentiated cells are called stem cells
What is the function of a sperm cell ?
The function of a sperm cell is to get the male DNA to the female DNA.
What are the features of a sperm ?
A sperm has a long tail and a streamlined head to help it swim to the egg
There are a lot of mitochondria in the cell to provide the energy needed
It also carries enzymes in its head to digest through the egg cell membrane
What is the function of a nerve cell?
The function of the nerve cell is to carry electrical signals from one part of the body to another
These cells are long and have branched connections at their ends to connect to the other nerve cells and form a network throughout the body
What is the function of a muscle cell ?
The function of a muscle cell is to contract quickly. These cells are long and contains a lot of mitochondria to generate the energy needed for contractions
What are the functions of a root hair cell ?
Root hair cells are cells on the surface of plant roots which grows into long “hairs” that stick out into the soil
This gives plants a big surface area for absorbing water and mineral ions from the soil
What are the functions of a phloem and xylem cell ?
Phloem and xylem cells form phloem and xylem tubes, which transport substances such as food and water around plants.
To form the tubes, the cells are long and joined end to end . Xylem cells are hollow in the centre and phloem cells have a very few sub cellular structures, so that stuff can flow through them
