# Specialised cell

A cell with a shape and parts that suit one particular job.

Biology (school) · Part 01: Cells · Card 10 of 12 · Last updated 2026-10-19

## Analogy

Like a tool: a screwdriver and a hammer look different because they do different jobs.

## In practice

A nerve cell is long to carry signals. A sperm cell has a tail to swim.

## Practice

### Flashcards

- **Why does a sperm cell have a tail?** The tail lets it swim to the egg. This is a specialised feature.

### Interview questions

**Explain how a sperm cell is adapted to its function.**

- It has a tail to swim
- It has many mitochondria for energy
- It carries half the genetic information in its nucleus

## Questions people ask

### What are some examples of specialised cells?

A red blood cell is shaped like a disc with no nucleus to carry more oxygen. A nerve cell is long and has branches to pass signals. A root hair cell has a long thin extension that increases surface area to take in water. Each shape suits its job.

### How does a cell become specialised?

This process is called differentiation. In early life, cells are unspecialised stem cells. As the body develops, different genes are switched on or off in different cells. This changes the cell's shape and parts so it can do one job well, such as being a muscle or nerve cell.

## Related concepts

- [Nucleus](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-1/biology-school-part-1-concept-2)
- [Mitochondria](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-1/biology-school-part-1-concept-5)
- [Cell](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-1/biology-school-part-1-concept-1)
- [Cytoplasm](https://studyvisually.com/learn/science/biology-school/biology-school-part-1/biology-school-part-1-concept-3)

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