Question

Living organisms vary widely in size. However, even the largest organisms such as the giant redwood and the blue whale have cells that are roughly the same size as those in smaller organisms.
Why are all cells small?

• A. Cells must match the relative size of the organelles within them.
• B. Cells require enough membrane surface area to supply the needs of the cell contents.
• C. Cells that grow too large in size are absorbed by the surrounding cells in a fight for space.
• D. Cells are kept small by their requirements for food.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

The surface area to volume ratio has to be optimum by the cell in order to exchange nutrients and waste material between the cell and its extracellular matrix. Once the ratio exceeds a certain threshold value the cell undergoes division to maintain the ratio constant

So, the correct answer is 'Cells require enough membrane surface area to supply the needs of the cell contents'