# Why Are Cells So Small?

What reason is there for cells tending to remain small?

For ease of exchanging materials across the membrane. Reduces the distance materials must travel to reach every part of the cell.

explain information overload:

If the cell grows, the amount of DNA doesn't and it gets harder for the DNA to control this cell if it's bigger and has more needs therefore it's easier to take care of it if it's smaller

Are cells with a low surface area to volume ratio able to get materials into the cell efficiently?

No, only cells with a high ratio.

surface area:

The sum of all the areas of all the faces or surfaces that enclose a solid. 2. The sum of all the areas of all surfaces of a solid.

practice a SA:V problem:

answers vary

explain material exchange:

as cells get bigger, they need more materials and excrete more so it would be easier for cells to be small

total surface area equation

lenght x width x # of sides (for each side)

volume equation

length x width x height

If a cell grows bigger, does the DNA do so as well?

no

as cells get bigger, they need more ____ and to excrete more _____

nutrients & materials waste

what types of things does the cell need to take in?

oxygen, nutrients, water

volume:

space an object takes up

what types of things does the cell need to excrete?

waste, dead organelles, proteins, oils