Plant Cell Specialisation

• What is the process called when cells become specialized?

  Differentiation
• What are the key structures of a general plant cell?

  • Chloroplasts
  • Cellulose cell wall
  • Permanent vacuole
• What is the function of root hair cells?

  To absorb water and dissolved minerals effectively
• What do root hair cells lack that prevents them from photosynthesis?

  Chloroplasts
• How do root hair cells increase their efficiency in water absorption?

  • They have root hairs that increase surface area
  • They are specialized to absorb water and minerals
• Where are xylem cells found in plants?

  In the plant stem
• What is the primary function of xylem cells?

  To transport water and dissolved minerals
• What are the key features of xylem cells that aid their function?

  • Thick walls containing lignin for support
  • No internal structures (nucleus, cytoplasm, vacuole, chloroplasts)
  • End walls have broken down to form long tubes
• What chemical is found in the walls of xylem cells?

  Lignin
• Why do xylem cells die after differentiation?

  Because their walls are sealed with lignin
• What do phloem cells transport?

  Dissolved sugars
• What are the two types of cells that make up phloem?

  • Phloem vessel cells
  • Companion cells
• What is a key feature of phloem vessel cells that aids sugar transport?

  They have sieve plates in their end walls
• How do companion cells support phloem vessel cells?

  By providing energy through mitochondria