specialisation

• sperm cell

  • lots of mitochondria to provide energy for movement
  • long tail allowing it to swim streamlined to the ovum
  • contains acrosome which are enzymes to allow the sperm to penetrate the egg outer layer
• root hair cell

  • lots of mitochondria to provide energy for active transport of mineral ions from the soil
  • increases surface area for efficient absorption
  • has a vacuole full of cell sap that is more concentrated than soil water creating a water potential gradient for efficient water absorption
• xylem cell

  • long hollow tubes to carry water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the leaves
  • no subcellular structures, cell walls, cytoplasm making it easier for water and minerals to flow
  • lignin - strengthens and supports the plant
• phloem

  • carries dissolved sugars and amino acids up and down the plant
  • cells are joined with sieve plates allowing dissolved sugars to move through the cell
  • has mitochondria by active transport providing energy to phloem cell