Multiple choice

Which of the following cells have the smallest membrane surface in relation to its volume?

  1. Flat surface

  2. Spindle shape

  3. Columnar shape

  4. Spherical shape
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

A sphere has the minimum surface area for a given volume among all geometric shapes. As cells increase in size, their volume grows faster than their surface area (volume is proportional to the cube of radius, while surface area is proportional to the square). A spherical shape minimizes the surface-to-volume ratio, which is advantageous for reducing heat loss and resource exchange requirements.

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