Cell Size and Surface Area
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Objective
I can explain how surface area to volume ratio affects cell size and function.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
Khan Academy · 5:12Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by Khan Academy on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 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.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
10 questions
Why is the surface area to volume ratio important for cell function?
As a cell increases in size, what happens to its surface area to volume ratio?
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain how a cell's surface area to volume ratio affects its ability to exchange resources and waste with its environment. Be sure to include what happens to the ratio as a cell grows larger.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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Teacher Guide
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