Cells may be adapted for rapid transport by increased surface area or increased number of protein channels and carrier molecules
Some cells need to move substances very quickly. They do this by having a larger membrane surface area or more transport proteins embedded in the membrane.
Real World
Cells lining the small intestine have thousands of microvilli forming a brush border, increasing surface area by up to 600-fold — this adaptation allows a human to absorb enough glucose from a single meal to power the brain for hours.
Exam Focus
When asked to 'explain' adaptations, always link the structural feature to its functional outcome for full marks.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
How well did you know this?