Extracellular, in biology, refers to the space outside of cells in a multicellular organism.
Understanding the Extracellular Space
The extracellular space is the region of a multicellular organism that exists outside of its cells, specifically outside the plasma membranes. According to the reference, it's typically understood to be the area occupied by fluid. It stands in contrast to the intracellular space, which is the space located inside the cells.
Key Characteristics:
- Location: Outside the plasma membranes of cells.
- Composition: Primarily filled with fluid.
- Significance: Plays a crucial role in cell communication, nutrient transport, and waste removal.
Table Summarizing Intracellular vs. Extracellular
| Feature | Intracellular | Extracellular |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Inside the cells | Outside the cells |
| Boundary | Cell membrane (plasma membrane) | Defined by the outer limits of the organism |
| Primary Content | Cytoplasm, organelles | Fluid |
