Innovating Science® - Individual Instruction: Diffusion and Cell Size

Why are cells microscopic? The answer relates to the need for the cell to effectively bring materials
in and remove waste. In this activity, create simulated cells (agar blocks) of different sizes and
examine how effectively a substance is able to diffuse into the cell in a set period of time. A special
indicator in the cells will allow for visualization of the degree of diffusion. The results will clearly
display the fact that a smaller volume creates a more favorable condition for the exchange of
material across a cell membrane. Kit contains enough materials for a student to perform the activity
twice. Instruction Manual included.

Aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)*
Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A
Performance Expectations: MS-LS1-1; MS-LS1-2
Cross Cutting Concepts: Scale, Proportion, and Quantity; Structure and Function
Engineering Practices: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations; Developing and Using Models

Kit Includes:
Agar, 4.5 g
Bromothymol blue concentrate, 3 mL
Hydrochloric acid 2M solution, 10 mL
Agar block casting tray
Plastic cup
Plastic knife
Plastic stirrer

DOT Info:
Non-regulated.

*"Next Generation Science Standards" is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards was involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.

Innovating Science® products are For Laboratory Use Only