B2.1 - Specialised Cells Flashcards
Why is an egg cell a specialised cell?
Egg cells are specialised for reproduction. The main functions of an egg cell are to carry the female DNA and to nourish the developing embryo in the early stages, so the egg cell contains huge food reserves to feed the embryo.
Why is a sperm cell a specialised cell?
Sperm cells are specialised for reproduction. The function of a sperm cell is to get the male DNA to the female DNA. It has a long tail and a streamlined head to help it swim to the egg. There are also lots of mitochondria in the cell to provide the energy it needs to do this.
Why are red blood cells specialised?
Red blood cells are adapted to carry oxygen to every cell in the body. They have a biconcave shape (both sides of the cell curve inwards) which gives them a big surface area for absorbing oxygen. This shape also helps them pass smoothly along capillaries (tiny blood vessels) to reach the body cells.
Why are palisade leaf cells specialised?
Palisade leaf cells are adapted for photosynthesis. They are grouped together at the top of a leaf where most of the photosynthesis happens.
They’re packed with chloroplasts which absorb the light energy needed for photosynthesis. There are more chloroplasts crammed at the top of the cell, so they’re nearer the light.
They’re tall with long sides, which means there’s more surface area exposed for absorbing carbon dioxide from the air in the leaf. They’re also thin, which means that you can pack loads of them at the top of a leaf.
What is a specialised cell?
A specialised cell is one that performs a specific function. An example of a specialised cell is a red blood cell.
