In the context of control of cell size, what most directly limits the maximum size of a typical cell?

• A. The inability of mitochondria to produce ATP once a cell exceeds a specific diameter
• B. An absolute upper limit imposed by the thickness of the plasma membrane
• C. The need to maintain a constant number of ribosomes per cell regardless of cell volume
• D. A decreasing surface-area-to-volume ratio that restricts nutrient uptake and waste removal as cell size increases

Answer: (D)