# Explain why a muscle cell, on its own, cannot carry out all the functions needed to keep a mammal alive.

> Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0) — 1.2 Levels of organisation · Explain · 4 marks

> Multicellular organisms such as mammals contain many different specialised cells. Each type of cell is adapted to carry out a specific function.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A single muscle cell is specialised / adapted for one specific function (contraction / movement)
2. Different functions (e.g. gas exchange, digestion, coordination) require different specialised cell types
3. Cells are organised into tissues, organs, and organ systems to carry out complex functions together
4. This organisation into organ systems allows the whole organism to survive / all life processes to be carried out

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Biology (1BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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