Question

What is the relationship between cell size and diffusion.

A) Larger cells have faster diffusion
B) Smaller cells have faster diffusion
C) No correlation between cell size and diffusion
D) Diffusion is independent of cell size

Answer 1

Smaller cells have faster diffusion because substances have less distance to travel within the cell, which makes diffusion more efficient. Larger cells face limitations due to the increased distance that substances need to diffuse.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between cell size and diffusion can be understood through the principle that distance travelled is a critical factor in the rate of diffusion. Larger cells have a greater volume for molecules to diffuse through, which means nutrients and waste have to travel a longer distance to reach or exit the cell's center. As a result, smaller cells generally have faster diffusion because the substances have less distance to travel. The correct answer to the question is that B) Smaller cells have faster diffusion. This is because the greater the distance a substance must travel, the slower the rate of diffusion, creating a limitation on cell size.

.