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Purpose:
Investigate the relationship between surface area and volume and how this ratio is affected by cell size. Examine relationship between cell size and diffusion rates.
Summary:
Cubes of agar of varying size are immersed in NaOH solution and then dried. Surface area and volume are measured to calculate the ratio between them.
Objectives Links:
Structure & Function of Cell Membranes
Process Skills Checklist
Materials:
- safety goggles
- apron
- millimeter ruler
- 250 ml beaker or culture dish
- 1 plastic knife
- 1 plastic spoon
- phenolphthalein-agar
- 100 ml of 0.4% NaOH (per group)
- paper towels
Safety Concerns:
Basic safety associated with corrosive solutions (NaOH) applies; avoid contact with skin or eyes. Students must wear goggles or glasses at all times as well as lab aprons.
Revision Date:
Summer 2001
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