Chapter 22.1, Problem 6MI

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The characteristic and function of parenchyma, collenchyma, and sclerenchyma cells.

Introduction:

Plant cells act as building blocks for plants. These cells contain chloroplast, where photosynthesis occurs. It is an important process in plants for making food, by using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.

Explanation of Solution

Parenchyma cells

Characteristics − These cells divide at maturity and helps in the healing of wounds. A single parenchyma cell can develop into a complete plant.

Functions − Parenchyma cells help in exchange if gas, transport of nutrients, storage of water, fats, and oils.

Collenchyma cells

Characteristics − The cell walls of these cells are thickened at corners due to cellulose, pectin, and hemicellulose deposits. In collenchyma tissue, there is no intercellular space.

Functions − These cells provide mechanical support to the plants.

Sclerenchyma cells

Characteristics − These cells have thick and lignified secondary walls, at maturity these cells lose cellular contents. Due to this, these cells are rigid, and hard.

Functions − The main function of these cells is to provide mechanical strength and stiffness to plants.