1.1 Review

Question 1

Explain why small cells are more efficient than big cells

Answer 1

1. The rate of metabolism is a function of a cell’s mass / volume
2. The rate of material exchange is a function of the cells surface area

Question 2

Describe what is meant by the term emergent properties

Answer 2

An emergent property is a characteristic an entity gains when it becomes part of a bigger system.

Question 3

Outline the advantages of cells differentiating to carry out specific functions

Answer 3

Emergent properties help living organisms better adapt to their environments and increase their chances of survival.

Question 4

In which type of cells is the entire genome active?

Answer 4

Diploid cells

Question 5

Describe how newly formed cells specialize

Answer 5

Newley formed cells become specialized through signals activating or deactivating the cells