A student is researching how plant cells become specialised. They learn that meristematic cells in plants can differentiate into many different cell types, including guard cells and root hair cells. Explain how cell differentiation allows multicellular organisms to become more efficient.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Meristematic cells are undifferentiated cells found in plant meristem tissue. Through cell differentiation, these cells can develop into specialised cell types, each with a structure suited to its function.
Model answer (5 marks)
Cell differentiation is the process by which undifferentiated meristematic cells become specialised cells.
Specialised cells have structural features that suit their particular function.
For example, root‑hair cells develop a very long, thin extension that gives them a large surface area, which increases the uptake of water and minerals from the soil.
Guard cells differentiate to form the stomatal complex; their shape and ability to change volume allow them to open and close stomata, regulating gas exchange and water loss.
Because different cell types carry out distinct roles, the whole multicellular organism functions more efficiently than if all cells were identical.
Specialised cells have structural features that suit their particular function.
For example, root‑hair cells develop a very long, thin extension that gives them a large surface area, which increases the uptake of water and minerals from the soil.
Guard cells differentiate to form the stomatal complex; their shape and ability to change volume allow them to open and close stomata, regulating gas exchange and water loss.
Because different cell types carry out distinct roles, the whole multicellular organism functions more efficiently than if all cells were identical.
Examiner tips
- Use the exact wording from the mark scheme – e.g. ‘specialised cells have structural features suited to their specific function’. Include two correct examples (root‑hair and guard cells) and explain the functional advantage. Show the logical link: differentiation → specialised structure → increased efficiency.
- common_mistakes
- :
- Using vague terms like ‘different cells’ without specifying differentiation. Failing to give both examples or not linking them to efficiency. Mixing up root‑hair function with other cell types.
Mark scheme (5 marks)
- Cell differentiation is the production of specialised cells
- Specialised cells have structural features suited to their specific function
- Correct example: root hair cells have a large surface area to increase uptake of water and minerals from the soil
- Correct example: guard cells control the opening and closing of stomata to regulate gas exchange and water loss
- Because different cell types carry out different roles, the whole multicellular organism functions more efficiently than if all cells were the same
Key terms in this question
cell differentiation · meristematic cell · multicellular organism · guard cells · root hair cells
Related
- All OCR A-Level Biology B — Advancing Biology (H422) revision notes →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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