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Compare and contrast the structure and function of a unicellular organism with a specialised cell from a multicellular organism.
In your answer, provide an example of each and discuss how the structures of each cell type relate to their functions. (3 marks)
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→ A yeast cell is a unicellular organism that has all the structures it needs within a single cell to perform all life functions, including a nucleus for storing genetic information, and organelles like mitochondria for energy production.
→ In contrast, a neuron in a multicellular organism is highly specialised, with branch-like dendrites for receiving signals, and a long axon for sending electrical messages.
→ The yeast cell’s structures allow it to live independently, carrying out all necessary life processes on its own.
→ The neuron’s specialized structure, however, shows how cells in multicellular organisms can have specific jobs, allowing the whole organism to perform more complex functions by dividing tasks among different cell types.
→ A yeast cell is a unicellular organism that has all the structures it needs within a single cell to perform all life functions, including a nucleus for storing genetic information, and organelles like mitochondria for energy production.
→ In contrast, a neuron in a multicellular organism is highly specialised, with branch-like dendrites for receiving signals, and a long axon for sending electrical messages.
→ The yeast cell’s structures allow it to live independently, carrying out all necessary life processes on its own.
→ The neuron’s specialized structure, however, shows how cells in multicellular organisms can have specific jobs, allowing the whole organism to perform more complex functions by dividing tasks among different cell types.
Which of the following statements correctly compares unicellular and multicellular organisms?
\(C\)
→ Unicellular organisms perform all life functions within a single cell.
→ Multicellular organisms have specialiSed cells that perform specific functions, allowing for a division of labor within the organism.
\(\Rightarrow C\)
"Multicellular organisms exhibit different levels of cell complexity, from simple cells to highly specialised ones."
Justify this statement, providing examples to support your answer. (4 marks)
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→ Multicellular organisms show different levels of cell complexity, starting with simple cells that perform basic functions, like skin cells, to highly specialised cells, such as neurons, which have unique structures for transmitting signals.
→ Cell groups within multicellular organisms cannot survive without other cell types performing their role.
→ A hierarchy arises, organising cells into tissues, organs and other systems, each with distinct functions that work together to support life.
→ For example, muscle cells form muscle tissue, which contracts to allow movement, while red blood cells transport oxygen through the circulatory system but cannot reproduce.
→ The specialisation of cells allows multicellular organisms to perform complex tasks more efficiently, contributing to the organism’s overall survival and adaptability.
→ This organisation enhances both the functionality and efficiency of biological processes
→ Multicellular organisms show different levels of cell complexity, starting with simple cells that perform basic functions, like skin cells, to highly specialised cells, such as neurons, which have unique structures for transmitting signals.
→ Cell groups within multicellular organisms cannot survive without other cell types performing their role.
→ A hierarchy arises, organising cells into tissues, organs and other systems, each with distinct functions that work together to support life.
→ For example, muscle cells form muscle tissue, which contracts to allow movement, while red blood cells transport oxygen through the circulatory system but cannot reproduce.
→ The specialisation of cells allows multicellular organisms to perform complex tasks more efficiently, contributing to the organism’s overall survival and adaptability.
→ This organisation enhances both the functionality and efficiency of biological processes
Describe two key differences between colonial and multicellular organisms. (2 marks)
→ Colonial organisms do not exhibit specialisation. Each cell in the colony is the same but they are connected in such a way to enhance processes such as food gathering and production.
→ Multicellular organisms do consist of specialised cells, each of which will carry out one specific function which will benefit the whole organism.
→ Colonial organisms do not exhibit specialisation. Each cell in the colony is the same but they are connected in such a way to enhance processes such as food gathering and production.
→ Multicellular organisms do consist of specialised cells, each of which will carry out one specific function which will benefit the whole organism.