Cell Structure and Function

Smaller cells tend to have higher metabolic rates due to larger surface area per unit volume

Larger cells tend to have lower metabolic rates per unit volume than smaller cells

Smaller cells generally require less energy than larger cells due to reduced metabolic demands

Large cells typically show no significant differences in metabolic rates when compared to smaller cells

It will cause all offspring to inherit the mutation as it changes the genetic material of gametes.

The mutation might skip a generation before appearing in the phenotype of grandchildren.

It will not affect future generations as mutations in somatic cells are not heritable.

It will impact only half of the offspring depending on which allele is passed on during sexual reproduction.

Small, large

Large, small

Large, large

Small, small

Osmoregulatory channels importing more solutes into the cell.

High turgor pressure within a rigid cell wall structure.

Lipid bilayer permeability increasing to allow water outflow.

Cytoplasmic contractile vacuoles expelling excess water.

Cells are small because they do not contain complex structures like organelles.

Larger cells would require more energy than what could be sustainably produced.

Small size allows for an efficient exchange of materials across the cell membrane.

Small cells can reproduce faster than larger ones, promoting genetic diversity.

Bacterial cells

All cells have the same surface area-to-volume ratio

Plant cells

Animal cells

The nucleus houses DNA which directs synthesis of specific proteins that determine cell structure and function.

Nucleoli produce ribosomal RNA, important protection against UV radiation damage.

Mitotic spindle formation originates centrally within nuclei, facilitating equal division.

Nuclei regulate extracellular fluid composition, directly affecting cytoplasmic functions.

Golgi apparatus.

Mitochondria.

Rough endoplasmic reticulum.

Smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

All allele frequencies will remain constant as every male has an equal chance at reproduction regardless of their traits.

Sexual selection will evenly distribute all allele frequencies because male traits vary widely.

Allele frequencies may shift towards those that code for more attractive traits due to female mate choice preferences.

Sexual selection is irrelevant since natural selection is the only process affecting allele frequencies.

Reduction in nucleocytoplasmic transport.

Increased density of ribosomes.

Expansion of the extracellular matrix.

Decreased number of mitochondria.