Biology GCSE
Surface area and diffusion
What Surface area and diffusion means in Biology GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Surface area and diffusion
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Surface area and diffusion in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Villi and microvilli in the small intestine, alveoli in the lungs, gill filaments and lamellae, root hair cells and a large flat leaf surface all increase surface area to maximise diffusion.
Topics that use Surface area and diffusion
- Diffusion (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Concentration gradient
- Concentration gradients
- Diffusion
- Diffusion and concentration gradients
- Diffusion and metabolic demand
- Diffusion and organism size
- Exchange surfaces
- Exchange surfaces in animals
Using Surface area and diffusion in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Biology GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge