Cell differention and specialistion

• What is the process called when cells change to become specialised?

  Differentiation
• What do cells develop into during differentiation?

  Different subcellular structures
• At what stage can most animal cells differentiate?

  At an early stage
• How does the differentiation ability of plant cells differ from that of animal cells?

  Lots of plant cells can differentiate for their whole life
• What are undifferentiated cells called?

  Stem cells
• Name two examples of specialised cells.

  Sperm cell and nerve cell
• What is the function of sperm cells?

  To take male DNA to the egg
• What adaptations do sperm cells have for swimming?

  They have a tail and lots of mitochondria for energy
• What is the primary function of nerve cells?


  To carry electrical signals around the body
• How are nerve cells adapted to cover more distance?


  They are long and have branches at the end
• What is the function of muscle cells?


  To contract and create movement
• What adaptations do muscle cells have for energy?


  They have lots of mitochondria
• What do phloem cells transport?


  Food
• What do xylem cells transport?


  Water
• How do phloem and xylem cells form their structures?


  They form tubes that are long and join end to end
• What is a unique feature of xylem cells?


  Xylem cells are hollow
• What is a unique feature of phloem cells?


  Phloem cells have very few subcellular structures
• What are the key characteristics of specialised cells?


  • Adapted for specific functions
  • Have unique structures
  • Examples include sperm cells, nerve cells, muscle cells, phloem cells, and xylem cells
• Compare the functions of phloem and xylem cells.


  • Phloem: Transports food
  • Xylem: Transports water
  • Both form long tubes that join end to end