Root Hair Cells & Palisade Mesophyll Cells
Biology: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 2.1.9
Root Hair Cell
Root hair cells are specialised (to perform a specific function). Their structure allows the plant to absorb more water. They also allow a plant to take in the minerals it needs to survive.
No chloroplasts
- These cells are located underground.
- This means that they do not contain chloroplasts (there is no light for photosynthesis).
Long projections
- Root hair cells have long projections that increase the surface area that the plant can use to absorb water and minerals.
Palisade Mesophyll Cells
Palisade mesophyll cells perform much of a plant's photosynthesis.
Leaf surface
- Palisade mesophyll cells are tall.
- Palisade mesophyll cells can be packed tightly together near the surface of leaves.
- This helps the cells to absorb as much sunlight as possible.
Many chloroplasts
- Palisade mesophyll cells contain many chloroplasts (the structures in cells where photosynthesis takes place).
Test yourself on Root Hair Cells & Palisade Mesophyll Cells
What type of plant cell does not contain chloroplasts?
Why do root hair cells have long projections (also known as 'hairs')?
Which of these is not a feature of palisade mesophyll cells?
Why are palisade mesophyll cells packed tightly at the leaf surface?
What is the main function of palisade mesophyll cells in a leaf?