Surface Area to Volume Ratio in Organisms

To allow for efficient exchange of materials

Because as organisms become larger, their volume increases at a faster rate than their surface area

Flattened shape and specialised exchange surfaces

<p>No cell is ever far from the surface</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It would take too long for substances to reach the middle of the organism</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Because their volume increases at a slower rate than their surface area</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Large surface area relative to volume, thinness for short diffusion distance, selective permeability, movement of environmental medium, and a transport system for internal medium.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To prevent damage and dehydration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It increases the available area for diffusion or active transport to occur.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>diffusion rate (surface area difference in concentration) / length of diffusion path</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To allow selected materials to cross the surface while preventing others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It moves the external medium (e.g. air) over the internal exchange surface to maintain a diffusion gradient.</p> Signup and view all the answers