2.1.6 Cell Division – Cell Specialisation Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is a specialised cell?
A cell that has differentiated, has a specific function and their structure is adapted to perform that function.
How is the structure of erythrocytes adapted to perform its function?
They have biconcave disc shape which provides a large surface area for diffusion of gases (e.g. oxygen).
They have no nucleus so there is more room for haemoglobin and can carry more oxygen.
What is the role of neutrophils?
It is a type of white blood cell (leucocyte) that can perform phagocytosis.
How is the structure of neutrophils adapted to perform its function?
Their flexible shape allows them to engulf pathogens.
The many lysosomes in their cytoplasm contain digestive enzymes to break down the engulfed pathogens.
What is the role of epithelial cells?
They cover the surfaces of organs.
How is the structure of epithelial cells adapted to perform its function?
Ciliated epithelia have cilia that waft to move particles away.
Squamous epithelia are flattened cells to produce a short diffusion pathway.
How is the structure of sperm cells adapted to perform its function?
They have a flagellum (tail) so they can swim to the egg.
They also have lots of mitochondria to provide the energy to swim.
The acrosome contains digestive enzymes to enable the sperm to penetrate the surface of the egg.
What is the role of the palisade mesophyll cells?
They are the site photosynthesis.
How is the structure of palisade mesophyll cell adapted to perform its function?
They contain many chloroplasts, so they can absorb the maximum amount of light.
The walls are thin so carbon dioxide can easily diffuse into the cell.
What is the role of root hair cells?
They absorb water and mineral ions from the soil.
How is the structure of root hair cells adapted to perform its function?
They have a large surface area for absorption and a thin, permeable cell wall, for entry of water and ions.
The cytoplasm contains extra mitochondria to provide the energy needed for active transport.
What is the role of the guard cells?
They control the opening and closing of the stomata for gas exchange.
How is the structure of guard cells adapted to perform its function?
They have unevenly thickened (cell) wall so are able to, change shape / bend
They have transport proteins / ion pumps, in plasma membrane to allow movement of ions to alter the water potential in the cell.
What is the definition of a tissue?
A group of cells that work together to perform a particular function.
What is the definition of an organ?
A group of different tissues that work together to perform a particular function.
