GCSE Biology (WJEC)

Topic Summaries

Transport in cells

Surface area to volume ratio

  • A large surface area to volume ratio increases the rate of diffusion.
  • To calculate surface area to volume ratio, divide the surface area by the volume.
  • Single-celled organisms have a large surface area to volume ratio so molecules can move into and out of the cell to meet the needs of the organism. •
  • Multicellular organisms have a small surface area to volume ratio so require an exchange surface and transport system to move substances around the organism.

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