A Level Biology Practice Exam

How does a high surface area to volume ratio benefit small organisms?

1. It allows for more efficient nutrient uptake

2. It maximizes reproductive rates

3. It means they can survive in extreme environments

4. It enables larger storage capacity of nutrients

The correct answer is: It allows for more efficient nutrient uptake

A high surface area to volume ratio is particularly advantageous for small organisms because it facilitates more efficient nutrient uptake. When an organism's surface area is large relative to its volume, it has a greater area available for the absorption of nutrients and the exchange of gases. This is crucial for small organisms, which often rely on diffusion for key processes due to their size. In a small organism, a larger surface area means that essential substances, like oxygen and nutrients, can enter the organism more rapidly, supporting metabolic processes that are necessary for survival and growth. This efficiency is particularly important in environments where resources may be limited or where the organism needs to respond quickly to changes. The other options do not directly relate to the benefits of a high surface area to volume ratio. While maximizing reproductive rates and surviving in extreme environments can be influenced by other traits, these factors are not inherently tied to how surface area impacts nutrient absorption. Similarly, having a larger storage capacity is more related to the overall size and design of an organism rather than surface area considerations.