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Why are cells generally so small? Select all of the answers that apply.

A) As they grow, their volume increases faster than their surface area.

B) As they grow, their surface area increases faster than their volume.

C) Moving nutrients across their cell membranes is more efficient.

D) Moving waste materials across their cell membranes is more efficient.

2 Answers

3 votes

B)As they grow their service area increases faster than their volume

Thats my answer

User Skateboard
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Answer:

A), C) and D)

Step-by-step explanation:

It is important for the cell to maintain a high surface area: volume ratio so that the gaseous exchange and movement of nutrients and waste material occurs efficiently across the cell membrane. Should the cell expand, then the volume would increase, decreasing the surface area: volume ratio. This would decrease the rate of movement of nutrients and waste material across the cell membrane, also the energy demand of the cell would be higher compared to a smaller cell.

Thus, cell division occurs to circumvent this.

User Jordanb
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