Exchange- SA:V

Question 1

How do Microorganisms Obtain Nutrients & Remove Waste?

Answer 1

 by exchange via their surface
 nutrients (e.g. glucose, oxygen) move in by diffusion via their surface
 waste (e.g. carbon dioxide) move out by diffusion via their surface

Question 2

Why are Microorganisms able to perform exchange via their surface?

Answer 2

have a large surface area to volume ratio
 have a short diffusion distance
 have low demand

Question 3

Why can’t Animals/Plants perform exchange via their surface?

Answer 3

 have a small surface area to volume ratio
 multicellular (large diffusion distance and high demand)
 impermeable surface (prevent pathogens entering and reduce water loss)
 therefore, require specialised Exchange & Transport systems
 exchange system = increases rate of diffusion of nutrients in and wastes out
 transport system = deliver nutrients and remove waste from all cells