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What feature can be used to distinguish mature xylem cells from mature phloem cells? (A) Phloem cells are located in vascular bundles - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 9
What feature can be used to distinguish mature xylem cells from mature phloem cells? (A) Phloem cells are located in vascular bundles. (B) Phloem cells have a cyto... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What feature can be used to distinguish mature xylem cells from mature phloem cells? (A) Phloem cells are located in vascular bundles - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 9 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
What feature can be used to distinguish mature xylem cells from mature phloem cells?
Answer
To distinguish mature xylem cells from mature phloem cells, one must consider the structural differences between these two types of vascular tissue.
Key Distinguishing Feature: MATURE PHLOEM CELLS HAVE A CYTOPLASM.
Among the given options, the correct distinction is that:
- B) Phloem cells have a cytoplasm.
This statement holds true, as mature phloem cells are living cells containing cytoplasm, which is essential for the transport of nutrients. In contrast, mature xylem cells typically lose their cytoplasm and are dead at maturity, primarily functioning in water conduction. This fundamental difference helps in identifying and distinguishing between the two types of cells.