Specialized cell structure and function
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Question
What is a specialized cell?
Answer
A cell whose **structure is adapted** to carry out a **particular function** efficiently.
Question
How do cells become specialized?
Answer
By **differentiation** — switching on (expressing) a particular set of their genes.
Question
What is the single rule for this whole topic?
Answer
**Structure follows function** — a cell's shape and contents match the job it does.
Question
How does a red blood cell's structure suit carrying oxygen?
Answer
**Biconcave** shape (large surface area) and **no nucleus** → more room for **haemoglobin** to carry O₂.
Question
How is an intestine lining cell adapted to absorb nutrients?
Answer
**Microvilli** give a large **surface area**; **many mitochondria** supply **energy (ATP)** for active transport.
Question
How is a sperm cell adapted to its function?
Answer
A **tail (flagellum)** and many **mitochondria** → energy to **swim** to the egg.
Question
How is a neuron adapted to its function?
Answer
A very **long fibre (axon)** → carries **electrical impulses** over long distances.
Question
How is a palisade mesophyll cell adapted for photosynthesis?
Answer
**Column shape near the upper leaf surface**, packed with **chloroplasts** → absorbs the most **light**.
Question
How is a root hair cell adapted to its function?
Answer
A **long, thin projection** into the soil → large **surface area** to absorb **water and minerals**.
Question
Which specialized cell is the largest, and why?
Answer
The **egg cell (ovum)** — it stores **food reserves** for the early embryo.
Question
Which specialized cells are among the smallest?
Answer
The **sperm cell** (stripped down to swim) and the **red blood cell** (small and flexible for capillaries).
Question
How should you answer 'Explain how structure adapts a cell to its function'?
Answer
In **feature → function pairs** — name a structure AND the job it makes possible; one mark per linked pair.
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Topic 2.5 hub
Cell specialization
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