Cell Size and Function
Learning Objective
I can explain how cell size and surface area to volume ratio affect cell function.
Lesson Flow
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Cell size | Structure of a cell | Biology | Khan Academy
Khan Academy
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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The width of pseud amonous bacteria is around one micrometer, while human egg cells have a diameter on the order of 100 micrometers.
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The smallest bacterial cells discovered have a size of about a few hundred nanometers, and the limiting factor for cell size is the ratio of volume to surface area.
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As a cell grows, the volume increases faster than the surface area, making it difficult for the cell to take in nutrients and get rid of waste.
Practice
11 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“Explain how the surface area to volume ratio limits cell size. Be sure to include how nutrient and waste exchange are affected.”
Teacher Guide
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- Answer keys for all questions
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