The diagram shows cells lining the human trachea, which are important in keeping the airways clear.
The height of cell Z (including its cilia) in the diagram is measured to be 48 mm. This image of the cell has been magnified 600×600\times600×.
Calculate the actual height of cell Z.
Use the equation: actual height=measured size÷magnification\text{actual height} = \text{measured size} \div \text{magnification}actual height=measured size÷magnification.
Height = ……………………………………………… mm
What is the name of cell Z? Tick one box:
- Red blood cell
- Ciliated epithelial cell
- Muscle cell
State two ways that cell Z is adapted to its function.
Light microscopes let us resolve objects as small as 0.25 μm0.25\,\mu\text{m}0.25μm. The width of the individual cilia on cells similar to cell Z can vary between 0.18 μm0.18\,\mu\text{m}0.18μm and 0.35 μm0.35\,\mu\text{m}0.35μm. (1 mm=1000 μm1\text{ mm} = 1000\,\mu\text{m}1 mm=1000μm)
Is it possible to resolve and clearly see all of these individual cilia using a light microscope? Explain your answer.
State why electron microscopy has increased our knowledge of sub-cellular structures.