specialization

• What are specialized cells?

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

  Differentiation
• What types of organisms are made up of specialized cells?

  Complex organisms like animals and plants
• How many types of specialized cells are there in humans?

  Approximately 200 types
• 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 sperm cells swim to the egg?

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

  To provide energy for swimming
• What do sperm cells have at their front to aid fertilization?

  Digestive enzymes to penetrate the egg
• How do specialized cells differ in shape and structure?

  They are adapted for different roles in the body
• What is differentiation in the context of cells?

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

  A fertilized egg cell
• What happens to the zygote after fertilization?

  It divides by mitosis into multiple cells
• What is the state of cells after several divisions post-fertilization?

  They are all identical and not specialized
• What does differentiation involve for a cell?

  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
• How does the process of differentiation contribute to the development of specialized cells?

  • Cells start as identical zygotes
  • Undergo mitosis to increase cell number
  • Differentiate into specialized cells with unique functions
• What adaptations do sperm cells have for their function?

  • Half genetic material for fertilization
  • Flagellum for swimming
  • Mitochondria for energy
  • Digestive enzymes for penetrating the egg
• What is the significance of mitochondria in specialized cells?

  • Provide energy for cellular functions
  • Vary in number depending on cell type