Paper 2 · November 2022 · Biology
Fig.1.1 shows a specialised cell taken from the upper part of a green leaf. Which statement correctly names the cell and gives the function it performs?
AIt is a root hair cell, and it absorbs water and dissolved mineral salts from the surrounding soil.
BIt is a guard cell, and it opens and closes the stoma to control the loss of water vapour.
CIt is a xylem vessel, and it carries water and mineral salts up the stem to the leaves.
DIt is a palisade cell, and it carries out photosynthesis to manufacture food for the plant.
Explanation
A palisade cell lies just below the upper epidermis and is packed with chloroplasts, so it traps the most light. Its work is photosynthesis, in which carbon dioxide and water are built into glucose using light energy.
Derived from ZIMSEC Combined Science 4003/2, November 2022, Q1(a)