LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -A larger surface area to volume ratio is more efficient than a smaller ratio. This is due to the amount of plasma membrane relative to the volume of the cell. The more plasma membrane available to transport materials in and out of the cell, the more efficient the cell will be in completing its specific functions.

Detailed explanation-2: -Cells are limited in size by their surface area to volume ratio. That is, their plasma membrane (surface area) must be large enough to import nutrients and excrete wastes for the entire cytoplasm (volume) of the cell. As cells get larger, their surface area to volume ratio increases, which is why cells are very small.

Detailed explanation-3: -First, cells can concentrate and isolate enzymes and reactants in a smaller volume, thereby increasing the rate and efficiency of chemical reactions. Second, cells can confine potentially harmful proteins and molecules in membrane-bound organelles, protecting the rest of the cells from their harmful effects.

Detailed explanation-4: -When a cell divides into two daughter cells, the total cell surface area should increase. There are two models for membrane supply to support cell division: (1) unfolding of small surface membrane reservoirs such as microvilli or wrinkles and (2) exocytosis of intracellular vesicles.