1.4.1 cell specialization

Question 1

Specialization

Answer 1

In complex multicellular organisms, cells gain specific features. This is called specialization. Specialized cells are then organized into groups to perform a function.

Question 2

cell specialization

Answer 2

A cell specializes because the shape and contents of a cell help it to carry out its function. Examples include:
Muscle cells are very active so contain lots of mitochondria in order to produce ATP.
Red blood cells have a biconcave shape and no nucleus to maximise space to carry oxygen. They also have lots of hemoglobin.
Palisade cells have a long, upright shape and contain chlorophyll to absorb light for photosynthesis.

Question 3

cell organisation

Answer 3

Specialised cells are organised into tissues, tissues into organs and organs into organ systems.
Tissues (e.g. muscle tissue, xylem tissue).
Organs (e.g. the animal heart or plant leaf).
Organ systems (e.g. the female reproductive system, which includes the uterus, ovaries, mammary glands and breasts).