Specialised Cells B2 Flashcards
How are sperm cells adapted to their role?
They have half the number of genetic material, they have a flagellum which allows it to swim, they are streamlined so they can swim faster, they have lots of mitochondria so they have plenty of energy to swim, they contain digestive enzymes at the front so they can make a hole in the egg once they meet.
What are some characteristics of specialised cells?
Specialised cells have a specific role in the body and to help them fulfil these roles they have a specific shape or structure and they have specific amounts of different organelles.
What is differentiation?
Differentiation is the process by which cells become specialised.
What are the characteristics of stem cells?
Stem cells are able to divide by mitosis to form more cells and they are able to differentiate into specialised cells.
What is the process of stem cells in animals?
Sperm and egg cells meet to form a single cell called a zygote, the zygote divides by mitosis and eventually forms an embryo (embryonic stem cell). Overtime, the cell divides as well as differentiates into any cells we need and after 9 months we have a baby. When the baby is an adult, the adult stem cells in its bone marrow can only differentiate into a narrow range of cells, e.g. blood cells.
Where are plant stem cells found?
Plant stem cells are found in plant tissues called meristems, which are found in areas of the plant that are continuously growing, like the tip of the roots and shoots.
What type of specialised cells will plant stem cells differentiate into?
Root hair cells, palisade cells, phloem and xylem cells
