OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Prepare for the OCR GCSE Biology Exam with detailed quizzes, flashcards, and explanations. Enhance your understanding of biology concepts and get exam-ready today!

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Which type of plant cell is specifically adapted to carry out photosynthesis?

Palisade leaf cells
Root hair cells
Phloem cells
Guard cells

The correct answer is: Palisade leaf cells

Palisade leaf cells are specifically adapted to carry out photosynthesis due to their structural features and location within the leaf. They are densely packed with chloroplasts, which are the organelles responsible for capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy during photosynthesis. The positioning of palisade cells just beneath the upper epidermis of the leaf maximizes their exposure to sunlight, allowing them to efficiently absorb light. Additionally, these cells have a columnar shape that maximizes surface area for light absorption and minimizes the distance that carbon dioxide must diffuse into the cells from the air spaces within the leaf. This optimal arrangement enhances the plant’s ability to perform photosynthesis effectively. Other cell types in the given options do not have the specialized structures or functions required for this process; for example, root hair cells focus on nutrient absorption, phloem cells are primarily involved in the transport of sugars, and guard cells regulate gas exchange but do not perform photosynthesis.