Question

Why is there an upper limit to the surface area-to-volume ratio in a cell?

a) To prevent efficient exchange of nutrients and waste
b) To maintain a higher metabolic rate
c) To ensure rapid diffusion of substances
d) To avoid limitations in cellular functions due to size constraints

Answer 1

As a cell increases in size, its surface area-to-volume ratio decreases, preventing efficient exchange of nutrients and waste.

Step-by-step explanation:

The upper limit to the surface area-to-volume ratio in a cell exists because as a cell increases in size, its surface area-to-volume ratio decreases. This means that a larger cell will have less surface area relative to its volume compared to a smaller cell. If a cell grows too large, its plasma membrane will not have enough surface area to support the efficient exchange of nutrients and waste required for its increased volume.