Question

Which of the following cell types forms most of the inside of a plant?

a. meristem cells

b. collenchyma cells

c. sclerenchyma cells

d. parenchyma cells

Short answer

d. Parenchyma cells

Step-by-step solution

Step-1 Introduction

Plants are autotrophs that are responsible for the production of food for every other organism. Therefore these are also known as producers. By the process of photosynthesis, they synthesize their food and also provide food to heterotrophs such as animals and other microbes.

Step-2 Explanation

The most common type of cell found in plants are Parenchymal cells. They are found in the root, stem, the inside of the leaf, and the fruit pulps. The primary responsibility of parenchyma cells is in the regulation of metabolic functions, such as photosynthesis, healing as well as repairing wounds. Some parenchyma cells also help in storing starch. The interior parts or anatomy of the stem show that the central pith and outer cortex are composed of parenchyma cells.

Meristematic cells are the cells that divide continuously and results in growth of the plant. These are mainly present in apical regions of the plant.

Collenchyma cells are having thickened cell wall and it provides structural support to leaves and stem.

Sclerenchyma cells are also helps in structural support and have contribution in thick cell wall formation.

Step-3 Final Answer

Therefore, option ‘d’ is the correct answer.

Parenchyma cells are the most common and found in most plant parts.