Question

Parenchyma cells are

• A. relatively unspecified and thin-walled
• B. thick-walled and specialised
• C. lignified
• D. none of these

Answer 1

The correct option is A

relatively unspecified and thin-walled

The correct option is A.

Explanation for the correct option:

1. It is a living cell
2. It has a prominent nucleus and protoplast
3. They may be polygonal, oval, round or elongated
4. These cells are closely packed or may have small intercellular space
5. They are made up of thin cell wall made up of cellulose, hemicellulose
6. Plasmodesmata join the cells of the parenchyma tissue
7. They have several small vacuoles.
8. Their main functions include photosynthesis, storage, secretion, assimilation, respiration, excretion and radial transport of water and solute.

Explanations for the incorrect options:

Option B:

1. Cell walls of collenchyma cells contain substantial amounts of cellulose and are polygonal in appearance.
2. These thicker cell walls and the longitudinal interconnecting of the cells give the tissue its strength.
3. All plant tissues that are neither cutaneous nor vascular are referred to as ground tissues.
4. The primary walls of parenchyma cells are thin, and they typically continue to live after reaching maturity.
5. They aid in the preservation of food, minerals, and water.

Option C:

1. These cells have the purpose of strengthening the mechanical stability of the central axis of plant organs in the face of gravity, mechanical disturbances, and physical harm.
2. The lignified secondary cell walls of the sclerenchyma fibres and sclereids are primarily made of S-units.
3. When parenchyma cells in plants lignify and develop thick walls, they offer mechanical support.
4. Lignin is missing in the parenchyma since it is a live cell.

Final answer: Parenchyma cells are relatively unspecified and thin-walled.