Specialised Cells

Specialised Cells

1. Leaf Cell

   • Function
     • Absorbs light energy for photosynthesis
   • Adaptation
     • Are packed with Chloroplasts. Regular shaped, closely packed layer of cells form a continuous layer for efficient absorption of sunlight
   • Where?
     • In the leaves of a plant such as a tree or a bush

2. Root hair cell

   • Function
     • Absorbs water and mineral ions from soil
   • Adaptation
     • Long and 'hair like' with very thin wall for large surface area
   • Where?
     • In the roots of plants such as trees or flowers. Not hair.

3. Sperm cell

   • Function
     • Fertilises egg cell
       • (Female gamete)
   • Adaptation
     • Head
       • Contains genetic information and enzyme to penetrate egg cell
     • Middle section
       • Packed with mitochondria for energy
     • Tail
       • Moves the sperm to the egg

4. Red blood cell

   • Function
     • Carry oxygen to cells
   • Adaptation
     • Contains haemoglobin (which binds to oxygen to form oxyhaemoglobin)
     • No nucleus
       • More room for haemoglobin
     • Thin outer membrane
       • Allows oxygen to diffuse easily
     • Shape
       • Increase surface area to carry more oxygen
   • Where?
     • Blood vessels in humans and animals

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