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GCSE Combined Science · key term
The process by which a cell becomes specialised to carry out a particular function.
Used by AQA and Edexcel
Specification 4.1.2.3, 4.6.1.2 · Paper 1, Paper 2
The process by which a cell becomes specialised, developing structures suited to its function.
Revise: Stem cellsThe process by which a cell becomes specialised is called differentiation.
Paper 1, Paper 2
Revise: Stem Cells and Their Use in MedicineCell division increases the number of cells; elongation increases their length; differentiation gives them the specialised features needed for their jobs. Meristems elsewhere in stems and roots also contribute to growth in width.
Distinguish mitosis, which increases cell number, from differentiation, which makes cells specialised.
Distinguish cell division, which produces more cells, from differentiation, which produces specialised cells.
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