Specialised Cells & Differentiation

• 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
• 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 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 do sperm cells have at the 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?

  The process by which cells become specialized
• What happens to the zygote during development?

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

  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 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 (e.g., muscle, nerve)
• What adaptations do sperm cells have for their function?

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

  • Provide energy for cell functions
• How do specialized cells differ from each other?

  • Different shapes
  • Different structures
  • Different organelle compositions