Cell specialisationSpec 4.1.1.3
Cells may be specialised to carry out a particular function. You should be able to explain how the structure of different types of cell relate to their function in a tissue, an organ or organ system, or the whole organism, when you are given appropriate information.
| Cell | Function | How its structure helps |
|---|---|---|
| Sperm cell | Carries the male genetic information to the egg | Tail for swimming; many mitochondria to release the energy needed to swim; streamlined head; enzymes in the head to break into the egg; nucleus containing genetic information |
| Nerve cell | Carries electrical impulses around the body | Long (extended) so it can carry impulses over long distances; branched connections at the ends to connect with other nerve cells and organs |
| Muscle cell | Contracts (shortens) to cause movement | Contains protein fibres that can slide to make the cell shorten; many mitochondria to release energy for contraction; may store glycogen as an energy source |
| Root hair cell | Absorbs water and mineral ions from the soil | Long hair-like projection gives a large surface area; thin cell wall; many mitochondria to release energy for active transport of mineral ions |
| Xylem cell | Carries water and mineral ions up the plant | Joined end to end to form a hollow tube with no end walls and no cytoplasm; walls strengthened (by lignin) |
| Phloem cell | Carries dissolved sugars around the plant | Elongated cells joined end to end to form tubes; pores in the end walls let cell sap containing dissolved sugars move from one phloem cell to the next |
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