Biconcave vs Biconvex: Which Gives Greater Surface Area?

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Biconcave shapes, like red blood cells (RBCs), provide a greater surface area compared to biconvex shapes, such as chloroplasts, when both have the same volume. This is crucial for biological functions that require high surface area for processes like gas exchange. The physics behind this observation highlights the efficiency of biconcave forms in maximizing surface area. The discussion emphasizes the importance of shape in biological structures for optimizing function. Ultimately, the biconcave shape is superior in terms of surface area for a given volume.
Pranav Jha
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this question of mine springs from an observation in biology but i think the answer is explained by physics. Both RBCs and chloroplasts need to have large surface area but RBC is biconcave shaped whereas chloroplast is biconvex shaped. IF both had the same volume, which would have a greater surface area i.e. for a given volume, which shape, biconcave or biconvex, gives greater surface area?
 
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Biconcave would have the greater surface area.
 

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