A Level Biology Practice Exam

In what type of plants would you primarily find sclerenchyma cells?

1. Plants with soft, flexible stems

2. Plants needing structural support

3. Plants primarily found in water

4. Plants that grow in shade

The correct answer is: Plants needing structural support

Sclerenchyma cells are specialized types of cells in plants that serve a crucial role in providing structural support. These cells have thickened, lignified cell walls, making them rigid and strong. This structural integrity is especially important for plants that need to withstand various environmental stresses and maintain their shape, particularly in woody plants and those that grow tall. Given this function, the presence of sclerenchyma cells is primarily associated with plants that require robust support to achieve and sustain their height, resist bending, and endure mechanical forces. This is why the answer highlighting plants needing structural support is appropriate. In contrast, plants with soft, flexible stems generally do not rely on sclerenchyma for support, as their structure is often maintained by other types of cells that allow for growth and flexibility. Similarly, plants primarily found in water often have adaptations that facilitate buoyancy rather than requiring dense, supportive cell structures. Lastly, shade-loving plants may have different adaptations to optimize light capture instead of relying on sclerenchyma for structural support. Therefore, the focus on structural support clearly aligns with the role of sclerenchyma cells.