INTRODUCTION:
Cells are limited in how large they can
be. This is because the surface area and volume ratio does not stay the same as
their size increases. Because of this, it is harder for a large cell to pass
materials in and out of the membrane, and to move materials through the cell.
In this lab, you will make cube shaped models to represent cells. The dimension
along one side will be doubled with each model. You will then calculate the
surface area, volume, and the ratio between the two.
MATERIALS:
Scissors
Construction paper
Tape
Metric ruler
PROCEDURE:
1. Construct three cell models like the pattern shown. The dimensions of a side will double each time, with the sides being 2 cm, 4 cm, and 8 cm. Fold and tape into cubes with the tabs to the inside. Record the dimensions in the DATA TABLE (the first one is done for you in the table).
DATA TABLE: Cell Size Comparison | ||||
Cell |
Dimensions (cm) |
Surface Area (cm2) |
Volume (cm3) |
Ratio Surface area to Volume |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
2 X 2 X 2 |
|||
2 |
||||
3 |
CALCULATIONS:
2. Calculate the total surface area for each cell model by the following formula:
3. Calculate the volumes for each cell model by the following formula:
4. Calculate the surface area-to-volume ratio for each cell model by the following formula:
ratio = | surface area volume |
---|
QUESTIONS:
1. Which model has the largest surface area?
2. Which model has the largest volume?
3. Which model has the largest ratio?
4. To maintain life, and carry-out cellular functions, materials must be
able to move into and out of the cell. Also, material needs to be able to
move within the cell. What might be the advantage of having a large surface
area?