cell specialization

• differentiation:

  • when a cell specializes
  • cell gains new sub-cellular structures in order for it to be for it to be suited to its role
• sperm cells:

  • specialized to carry the male's dna to the egg cell
  • streamlined head and long tail to aid swimming
  • alot of mitochondria for energy
  • the top of the head has digestive enzymes which break down the outer layers of membrane of the egg cell
• nerve cells:

  • specialized to transmit electrical signals quickly from one place to another
  • long axon - impulses can be carried long distances
  • has dendrites - branched connections can form with other nerve cells
  • nerve endings have alot of mitochondria
  • energy needed to make neuro transmitters - these allow the impulse to be passed from one cell to another
• muscle cells:

  • specialized to contract quickly to move bones or relax
  • alot of mitochondria for energy
  • can store glycogen that is used in respiration by mitochondria
• root hair cells:

  • specialized to take up water by osmosis and mineral ions by active transport
  • large surface area - root hairs that are one cell thick
  • large permanent vacuole
  • mitochondria to provide energy for active transport
• xylem cells:

  • specialized to transport water and mineral ions up the plant from the roots to the shoots
  • lignin is deposited in spirals - helps withstand pressure
• phloem cells:

  • specialized to carry products of photosynthesis to all parts of the plant
  • sieve plates are formed- allows the movement of substances from cell to cell
  • the energy they need to survive is supplied by mitochondria og companion cells