Metabolically active cells have

Options

A. Lower nucleocytoplasmic ratio
B. Higher nucleocytoplasmic ratio
C. Higher surface : volume ratio
D. Both B and C

Answer

To solve the question "Metabolically active cells have," we need to analyze the options provided:

1. **Understanding the Terms**:
- **Nucleocytoplasmic Ratio**: This refers to the ratio of the nucleus size to the cytoplasm size in a cell. A higher ratio means a larger nucleus relative to the cytoplasm.
- **Surface to Volume Ratio**: This is a measure of how much surface area a cell has relative to its volume. A higher ratio indicates more surface area for exchange processes.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A: Lower nucleocytoplasmic ratio**: This suggests that the nucleus is smaller compared to the cytoplasm. This is not typical for metabolically active cells, as they usually require a larger nucleus for control over metabolic activities.
- **Option B: Higher nucleocytoplasmic ratio**: A higher ratio indicates a larger nucleus, which is beneficial for regulating metabolic processes. This is true for metabolically active cells.
- **Option C: Higher surface to volume ratio**: A higher ratio allows for more efficient exchange of materials and gases, which is essential for active metabolism. This is also true for metabolically active cells.
- **Option D: Both B and C**: Since both B and C are correct, this option combines the two correct statements.

3. **Conclusion**:
- Since metabolically active cells have both a higher nucleocytoplasmic ratio and a higher surface to volume ratio, the correct answer is **Option D: both B and C**.

### Final Answer:
**Option D: both B and C**