A cell is exposed to a substance that prevents it from dividing. The cell becomes larger and larger. This situation
A)should present no problem to the cell, since it can continue to perform all other necessary functions.
B)should present no problem to the cell, because the surface area of the cell will increase as the volume of the cell increases.
C)will eventually be problematic, since the cell's ability to absorb nutrients through its outer membrane will not keep increasing as quickly as its cytoplasmic needs.
D)should be beneficial, since the cell will be able to divert the ATP normally used for cell division to other processes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the cell becomes larger, the surface area to volume ratio decreases which means that the cell's ability to absorb nutrients through its outer membrane will not keep increasing as quickly as its cytoplasmic needs. This can eventually lead to the cell becoming starved of necessary nutrients and causing problems.

A Cell Is Exposed to a Substance That Prevents It