Surface Area to Volume Ratio
Cell Structure and Function
Why are cells the size and shape that they are?
Cell Structure and Function
Why are cells the size and shape that they are?
Cells must be able to carry out functions efficiently.
Many of these functions involve transporting
substances throughout the cell and outside of the
cell to other targets.
Surface Area to Volume Ratio
The surface area to volume ratio refers to the
ratio of the cell’s total surface area in relation to
its volume.
Maximizing surface area to volume ratios is
important so that the transport systems in cells
can run efficiently
Surface Area to Volume Ratio
Reasons for keeping cell sizes small
Decreases distances that substances have to travel
… increasing the rate of diffusion.
Human Systems
Maximizing surface area is also important for the
efficiency of several systems in the body
Human Systems
Cardiovascular system (alveoli in the lungs and
capillaries that surround them aid in the diffusion
of O2 and CO2 in and out of the blood)
Human Systems
Digestive system
villi and microvilli are structures in the small intestine
that aid in the absorption of nutrients into the body)
Plant Systems
Structures in plants are also designed to
maximize surface area to volume ratios for their
specific functions.
Examples:
Leaf thickness
and shape
Plant Systems
Root structures