27.5k views
24 votes
Why must cells divide to stay small or change shape to reduce volume?

O To diffuse substances from an area of higher to lower concentration
To ensure the cell is able to obtain nutrients or remove wastes.
To reduce surface area of the cell for quick movement.
O To move water molecules from areas of high to low pressure

2 Answers

0 votes

Answer:

To ensure the cell is able to obtain nutrients or remove wastes.

The important point is that the surface area to the volume ratio gets smaller as the cell gets larger. Thus, if the cell grows beyond a certain limit, not enough material will be able to cross the membrane fast enough to accommodate the increased cellular volume That is why cells are so small.

User Mic Fung
by
3.5k points
9 votes

Answer:

if the cell grows beyond a certain limit, not enough material will be able to cross the membrane fast enough to accommodate the increased cellular volume. When this happens, the cell must divide into smaller cells with favorable surface area/volume ratios, or cease to function. That is why cells are so small.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Ivalkeen
by
3.6k points