Differentiation and Specialised Cells

• What are specialized cells?

  Cells that perform specific functions
• What is the process by which cells become specialized?

  Differentiation
• What types of organisms have specialized cells?

  Complex organisms like animals and plants
• Name three examples of specialized cells in animals.

  Sperm cells, muscle cells, nerve cells
• How many types of specialized cells are there in humans?

  Around 200 types
• Name two examples of specialized cells in plants.

  Root hair cells, xylem cells
• What is the role of a sperm cell?

  To deliver genetic material to an egg cell
• Why does a sperm cell have half the genetic material of a normal adult cell?

  To combine with the egg's genetic material
• What adaptation helps a sperm cell swim?

  The tail-like structure called the flagellum
• Why do sperm cells have many mitochondria?

  To provide energy for swimming
• What is the function of digestive enzymes in sperm cells?

  To break a hole into the egg cell
• What do specialized cells generally have that helps them fulfill their role?

  A specific shape and structure
• How do red blood cells and nerve cells differ?

  They have different shapes and structures
• What is differentiation?

  The process by which cells become specialized
• What is a zygote?

  A fertilized egg cell
• What happens to the zygote during development?

  It divides by mitosis into multiple cells
• What is the state of cells after several divisions from a zygote?

  They are all identical and unspecialized
• What does differentiation involve?

  Changing shape, structure, and organelle composition
• What are stem cells?

  Cells that can divide and differentiate
• What are the key characteristics of specialized cells?

  • Specific roles in the body
  • Unique shapes and structures
  • Different organelle compositions
• What is the process of differentiation in humans?

  1. Starts as a zygote (fertilized egg)
  2. Divides by mitosis into identical cells
  3. Cells undergo differentiation
  4. Become specialized cells (muscle, nerve, etc.)
• What adaptations do sperm cells have for their function?

  • Half genetic material
  • Flagellum for swimming
  • Streamlined shape
  • Many mitochondria for energy
  • Digestive enzymes for penetrating egg
• What is the significance of stem cells?

  • Ability to divide by mitosis
  • Potential to differentiate into specialized cells