For this activity, we had to make cube shaped models to represent cells. Then we had to compare surface area, volume, and surface area to volume ratio (SA:V) between the cells.
Cell A:
length of one side=1cm
Surface area= 6cm^2
Volume= 1cm^3
SA:V= 6
Cell B:
Length of one side= 2cm
Surface area= 24cm
Volume=8cm
SA:V=3
cell C:
length of one side= 3cm
Surface area=54cm
Volume=27cm
SA:V=2
Cell D:
Length of one side=4
Surface area=96cm
Volume=6cm
SA:V=1.5
1) What does it mean if the surface area to volume ratio is less than one?
It means that the cell is larger enough to t nutrients get into it. It also means that it has a larger surface area and volume.
2) What does it mean if the surface area to volume ratio is greater than one?
It means that the cell is small so less nutrients can get into it. It also means that it has a smaller surface area and volume.
3) What does it mean if the surface area to volume ratio is equal to one?
It means that the cell is perfectly fine as it is balanced.
Am I correct, I'm not too sure
For question 1, you are partially correct. If the surface area to volume ratio is less than one, it means that the cell is larger in size. However, it also implies that the cell has a smaller surface area relative to its volume. This can restrict the exchange of nutrients and waste materials across the cell membrane, making it less efficient.
For question 2, you are mostly correct. If the surface area to volume ratio is greater than one, it means that the cell is smaller in size. As a result, it has a larger surface area relative to its volume. This allows for more efficient exchange of nutrients and waste materials across the cell membrane.
For question 3, you are correct. If the surface area to volume ratio is equal to one, it means that the cell has a balanced surface area and volume, which is generally considered ideal for efficient nutrient exchange.
However, it's important to note that in your examples, Cell D has a volume of 6cm instead of 64cm³. Please double-check the volume value for Cell D.