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Updated Mar 19, 2026

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2 pages

Comprehensive AQA GCSE Biology Topic 1 Mindmap

Bella

@bella_2007

Understanding how cells work is fundamental to biology, and it's... Show more

Single celled organism: large
SA tov robo for sufficient
ofanart of molecules intout

multicellular organioms large
SAvito exchange substanc

Cell Transport and Microorganisms

Ever wondered how substances move in and out of cells? Single-celled organisms like bacteria have it easy - they're small enough that materials can simply diffuse across their surface. But multicellular organisms like us need special transport systems because we're much bigger!

Bacteria are fascinating little creatures that multiply through binary fission (basically splitting in two) every 20 minutes when conditions are right. You can actually grow them in the lab using nutrient broth or on agar plates - it's like creating a bacterial city!

The practical work involves creating a sterile environment using a Bunsen burner, then carefully applying bacteria with an inoculating loop. Safety is crucial here - we incubate at 25°C to avoid growing dangerous pathogens, and always work cleanly to prevent contamination.

Top Tip: Remember the three factors that speed up diffusion - bigger concentration gradient, higher temperature, and larger surface area. This knowledge is gold for your exams!

Osmosis is simply water moving from where there's lots of it to where there's less, through a partially permeable membrane. The potato practical demonstrates this perfectly - you'll see cylinders change mass as water moves in or out depending on the solution concentration.

Cell Structure and Specialisation

Cell sizes might surprise you - animal cells $0.01-0.05mm$ are generally smaller than plant cells $0.01-0.1mm$ , whilst bacterial cells are absolutely tiny at just 0.2-10 micrometers!

Animal cells contain the essential kit: nucleus (genetic control centre), cytoplasm $jelly-like stuff holding nutrients$ , cell membrane (bouncer controlling entry), mitochondria (powerhouses for respiration), and ribosomes (protein factories). Plant cells have all of these plus chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a permanent vacuole for support, and a tough cellulose cell wall.

Bacterial cells are completely different - they're prokaryotic, meaning their DNA floats freely rather than being locked in a nucleus. They've got plasmids (small DNA rings) that can jump between bacteria, which is pretty clever for sharing useful traits!

Remember: Animal cells lose their ability to differentiate early on, but plant cells can change throughout their entire lives - that's why you can grow a whole plant from a cutting!

Cell specialisation creates amazing adaptations. Sperm cells are basically swimming missiles with enzymes to penetrate eggs, whilst nerve cells have long axons covered in fat for speedy signal transmission. Each cell type has evolved the perfect structure for its job.

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Biology

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611

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Updated Mar 19, 2026

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2 pages

Comprehensive AQA GCSE Biology Topic 1 Mindmap

Bella

@bella_2007

Understanding how cells work is fundamental to biology, and it's easier than you might think! We'll explore everything from tiny bacteria to complex human cells, plus learn some brilliant practical techniques that scientists use every day.

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Cell Transport and Microorganisms

Top Tip: Remember the three factors that speed up diffusion - bigger concentration gradient, higher temperature, and larger surface area. This knowledge is gold for your exams!

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Join milions of students

Cell Structure and Specialisation

Cell sizes might surprise you - animal cells $0.01-0.05mm$ are generally smaller than plant cells $0.01-0.1mm$ , whilst bacterial cells are absolutely tiny at just 0.2-10 micrometers!

Remember: Animal cells lose their ability to differentiate early on, but plant cells can change throughout their entire lives - that's why you can grow a whole plant from a cutting!