Specialised Cells

Question 1

What are palisade leaf cells adapted for?

Answer 1

Photosynthesis

Question 2

What is the definition of a guard cell?

Answer 2

Special kidney shape which opens and closes the stomata (pores) of the leaf. When plant has lots of water, guard cells fill with it and go plump and turgid. This makes the stomata open so gases can be exchanged for photosynthesis. When plant is short of water guard cells lose water and become flaccid, making the stomata close. This helps stop to much water vapour escaping. Thin outer walls and thickened inner walls make opening and closing work. Sensitive to light and close at night to save water without losing out on photosynthesis. Guard cells are therefore adapted to their function of allowing gas exchange and controlling water loss within a leaf.

Question 3

Explain a palisade leaf cell?

Answer 3

They are packed with chloroplasts for photosynthesis and are grouped together at the top of the cell, nearer light. Tall shape means a lot of S.A. exposed down the side for absorbing co2 from the air in the leaf. Thin shape means that you can pack loads of them in at the top of the leaf.

Question 4

What are guard cells adapted to do?

Answer 4

Open and close pores

Question 5

Explain what red blood cells do?

Answer 5

Concave shape gives a big surface area for absorbing oxygen. Helps them pass smoothly through capillaries to reach body cells. Packed with Haemoglobin-pigment that absorbs oxygen. Don’t have a nucleus, need even more room for haemoglobin.