How is the size and shape of a cell related to the way it functions?

MrCodeDude

Lifer
Jun 23, 2001
13,674
1
76
I took Biology two years ago, this is on my review sheet for Physiology. I can't find it mentioned in the chapter that covers cells, if I remember correctly, smaller, spherical cells react faster or something.

Some Biology major want to answer in a nutshell? It's just a review guide that isn't even graded, but I'd like to know :)
 

TechnoKid

Diamond Member
Feb 12, 2001
5,575
0
0
There is a surface area limit for cells. I believe it has to do with the ratio of the surface area and the number of mitochondria in the cell; if the cell is too big, it cannot produce enough energy for itself to function. Thats all I remember from AP Bio in HS, been two years since I took it.