Cell Biology Flashcards
7 cards from real GCSE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Cell Biology flashcards as text
Why is a high surface area to volume ratio important for cells?
Answer: It increases the rate of diffusion of substances in and out of the cell
A high surface area to volume ratio means substances can diffuse across the membrane quickly relative to the cell's metabolic demands.
Embryonic stem cells are described as 'totipotent'. What does this mean?
Answer: They can differentiate into any type of cell in the organism
Totipotent cells can develop into any cell type in the body, including the placenta, making them the most versatile stem cells.
A scientist observes that a cell's mitochondria increase in number after regular exercise. What does this suggest?
Answer: Cells adapt to higher energy demands by producing more mitochondria
Increased exercise raises energy demand, so cells respond by increasing the number of mitochondria to produce more ATP.
What is the role of the Golgi apparatus in a cell?
Answer: Modifying, packaging, and dispatching proteins and lipids
The Golgi apparatus processes proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum, modifies them, and packages them into vesicles for secretion or use within the cell.
When a cell is described as 'turgid', what does this mean?
Answer: The cell is firm because water has entered by osmosis and the vacuole presses against the wall
Turgidity occurs when water enters the cell by osmosis, filling the vacuole and pushing the membrane against the rigid cell wall, making the cell firm.
Which of the following correctly describes the structure of DNA?
Answer: A double helix made of two polynucleotide strands held together by complementary base pairs
DNA is a double helix consisting of two antiparallel polynucleotide strands linked by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs (A-T and G-C).
How does the structure of a red blood cell adapt it for carrying oxygen?
Answer: Its biconcave shape increases surface area, and lack of a nucleus maximises haemoglobin space
The biconcave disc shape maximises surface area for gas exchange, and the absence of a nucleus allows more room for haemoglobin molecules.