SPECIALISED CELLS

AND THEIR
FUNCTIONS

Different types of cells carry out specific functions, collaboratively

supporting the diverse processes in an organism.
Each cell, when specialized, undertakes a particular job and adopts a
distinct shape, crucial for its special function.

Red Blood Cell (Erythrocytes)

Function: Transport oxygen from the lungs to body tissues and
carbon dioxide from body tissues to the lungs.
Structure: Biconcave shape lacking a nucleus to increase surface
area for oxygen absorption.
Adaptations: Flexibility and bi-concave shape facilitate movement
through small capillaries.
Composition:Contains hemoglobin, a red pigment carrying oxygen
for cellular respiration to produce energy.

Muscle Cell

Function: Responsible for contraction upon nerve stimulation,

enabling movement.
Structure: Long and thin with the ability to change shape during
contraction.
Adaptations: Abundance of mitochondria for energy provision
during muscle contraction.

Palisade Cell

Function: Conducts photosynthesis to produce food for the plant.

Structure: Columnar and closely packed with chloroplasts
containing chlorophyll for light absorption.
Adaptations: Increased surface area for sunlight and carbon
dioxide absorption.

Root Hair Cell

Function: Absorbs water and salts from the soil.

Structure: Thin cell walls for easy passage of water and nutrients.
Adaptations: Numerous, providing a large surface area in close
contact with the soil.
Projection: Hair-like structures penetrate between soil particles,
enhancing absorption.
Storage: Large vacuole facilitates water absorption and storage.

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