specialised plant cells

what is the purpose of the long hair-like shape of root hair cells?

to increase surface area for water and mineral absorption

how does the thin cell wall of root hair cells aid in their function?

it shortens the distance for diffusion

what role does the large vacuole play in root hair cells?

it stores water to maintain the cell’s turgidity

why do root hair cells not have chloroplasts?

they are underground and do not need photosynthesis

what is a key feature of xylem cells that facilitates water transport?

they have hollow tubes that allow water and minerals to flow through easily

how does lignin benefit xylem cells?

it strengthens the cell wall, preventing collapse and supporting the plant

why do xylem cells have no end walls?

to form a continuous column for water transport

why are xylem cells considered to be made of dead cells?

they lack organelles to allow for unobstructed flow of water

what function do sieve plates serve in phloem cells?

they allow the flow of sugars and other nutrients between cells

what is the role of companion cells in phloem cells?

they provide energy for the active transport of sugars

why do phloem cells contain few organelles?

to maximize space for transporting sugars

why are phloem cells described as living cells?

they maintain metabolic functions necessary for sugar transport