Skip to content

What happens to the somatic cell if its surface area to volume ratio decreases?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

When the surface area-to-volume ratio decreases (cell becomes too large), the cell undergoes mitosis to restore optimal size and maintain efficient nutrient/waste exchange.

Explanation:

  • Larger cells have insufficient surface area for diffusion
  • Cell division maintains nucleocytoplasmic ratio
  • Critical for cellular homeostasis
General · Class 12