Surface Area to Volume Ratio Flashcards
1
Q
What is the relationship between the size of an organism and its surface area to volume ratio?
A
As the size of the organism increases, its volume increases but the surface area does not increase at the same rate.
2
Q
What is the problem with large organisms and their surface area to volume ratio?
A
The demand for nutrients and waste removal of their cells increase disproportionately and their surface cannot accomodate for this. They require specialist exchange surfaces.
3
Q
What are general features of specialised exchange surfaces?
A
Permeable, Thin, Moist, Large surface area to volume ratio, good blood supply/ventilation.
