Cell Size and Surface Area
12th Grade · Science · 45 min· Ngss Hs-ls1-2, 2.2 Cell Size
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Learning Objective
I can explain how surface area to volume ratio affects cell size and function.
- 1
Cells need resources from the outside world, which must make their way through the outer membrane, and waste products need to be released across that membrane.
- 2
As the volume of a cell increases, the ratio between surface area to volume decreases, making it harder to exchange resources, waste, and energy.
- 3
Cells can increase their surface area to volume ratio through folds in their membranes, allowing for more efficient exchange.
