The major factor limiting cell size is the
A) concentration of water in the cytoplasm.
B) need for energy.
C) presence of membrane-enclosed organelles.
D) ratio of surface area to volume.
E) composition of the plasma membrane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As cells increase in size, their volume increases faster than their surface area. This means that larger cells have less surface area relative to their volume. This makes it more difficult for nutrients, gases, and wastes to move in and out of the cell, which can limit cellular activities. Therefore, the ratio of surface area to volume is the major factor limiting cell size.

The Major Factor Limiting Cell Size Is the