Question

Cells and their surrounding cell membrane are usually very small because

• A. The phospholipid bilayer of the plasma membrane cannot maintain integrity keeping the size of the cell small.
• B. The concentration of enzymes in small cells is greater than in large cells.
• C. The exchange of materials is less efficient than in large cells.
• D. It has a larger surface area to volume ratio compared to larger cells and therefore, provides a more efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products.

Answer 1

The correct option is D It has a larger surface area to volume ratio compared to larger cells and therefore, provides a more efficient exchange of nutrients and waste products.

Cells and their membranes are small so that they can maximize their surface area to volume ratio. Cells have a higher ratio that allows more molecules and ions i.e.nutrients and waste products across the cell membrane per unit of cytoplasmic volume. The greater surface area helps to increase the efficiency by allowing active transportation and exchange across the membrane. Thus the correct answer is option D.