Differentiation: GCSE Biology Definition
Written by: Emma Archbold
Reviewed by: Ruth Brindle
Published
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1 minutes
What is differentiation?
In GCSE biology, the term differentiation refers to the process where an unspecialised cell converts into a specialised cell.
In multicellular organisms, a stem cell is an unspecialised cell that does not play a specific role in the body but is able to divide by mitosis. During development, these unspecialised stem cells change during the process of differentiation. This can involve changing size, shape or the types of organelles found in the cell. After differentiation the cell becomes a specialised cell that plays an important role in the body such as a red blood cell or a nerve cell.
Differentiation diagram
Differentiation revision resources to ace your exams
You can explore differentiation further using our GCSE revision notes, topic questions and flashcards for your specific exam board:
Meet all your GCSE biology revision needs using our revision resources linked below. This includes revision notes, videos, flashcards and exam questions with student-friendly mark schemes.
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