Final answer:
A stem cell that differentiates develops into a specialized cell. Differentiation leads a cell to become more specialized and committed to its role, moving away from its initial totipotent state.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a stem cell differentiates and changes in size and shape, it develops into a specialized cell. This process is known as differentiation or specialization. Initially, embryonic stem cells are totipotent, meaning they have the potential to develop into any cell type required for embryonic development. As differentiation progresses, cells become more specialized, and this specialization is necessary for the proper functioning of an organism. The different levels of stem cell potential include totipotent, pluripotent, and multipotent. Once a stem cell has specialized, it typically does not change to a different type of cell and is committed to its specific role.