There are a few differences between the jobs of plant and animal cells. Which of the following is unique, specialized PLANT cell function?
transporting oxygen
photosyntheiss for food
signaling movement in other areas of the organism
digestion of energy source
Photosynthesis for food is the unique, specialized function of plant cells.
The unique, specialized function of a plant cell among the options provided is photosynthesis for food.
To understand this, let's break down the functions of each option:
1. Transporting oxygen: While both plant and animal cells require oxygen, the process of transporting oxygen is not unique to plant cells. It is carried out by certain specialized cells in both plant and animal organisms, such as red blood cells in animals and certain cells in plant tissues.
2. Photosynthesis for food: Photosynthesis is a process exclusive to plant cells. It is the mechanism by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose (a sugar) and oxygen. This glucose serves as a source of energy and food for the plant.
3. Signaling movement in other areas of the organism: Cell signaling is a process common to both plant and animal cells. Through specialized signaling molecules, cells can communicate and coordinate various activities within an organism. This function is not unique to plant cells.
4. Digestion of energy source: While plant cells do break down energy sources, such as glucose, for energy production, the act of digestion is typically associated with animal cells. Animal cells possess specific organelles, like lysosomes, that aid in the digestion of nutrients they obtain from their food sources.
Therefore, out of the options provided, photosynthesis for food is the unique, specialized function of a plant cell.