Multiple Choice
Which of the following factors is not responsible for controlling cell division, size, or survival?
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16. Cell Division
Control of Cell Size
Multiple Choice
In the context of control of cell size, what most directly limits the maximum size of a typical cell?
A
The inability of mitochondria to produce ATP once a cell exceeds a specific diameter
B
An absolute upper limit imposed by the thickness of the plasma membrane
C
The need to maintain a constant number of ribosomes per cell regardless of cell volume
D
A decreasing surface-area-to-volume ratio that restricts nutrient uptake and waste removal as cell size increases
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that cell size is limited by the cell's ability to exchange materials with its environment, which depends on the surface area of the plasma membrane.
Recall that as a cell grows, its volume increases faster than its surface area, leading to a decrease in the surface-area-to-volume ratio.
Recognize that a lower surface-area-to-volume ratio restricts the rate at which nutrients can enter and waste products can exit the cell, which is critical for cell survival and function.
Note that this limitation is more fundamental than factors like mitochondrial ATP production or membrane thickness because it directly affects the cell's metabolic needs and waste management.
Conclude that the maximum size of a typical cell is most directly limited by the decreasing surface-area-to-volume ratio that restricts nutrient uptake and waste removal as cell size increases.
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