Using your understanding of the function of chloroplasts and specialized cells, infer why plant root cells lack chloroplasts.(1 point)

Answer 1

Plant root cells lack chloroplasts because their primary function is to absorb water and minerals from the soil, rather than to conduct photosynthesis. Since root cells are typically located underground, they do not receive light, which is necessary for chloroplasts to carry out their role in photosynthesis. Therefore, the absence of chloroplasts in these cells is an evolutionary adaptation that allows them to focus on nutrient uptake rather than photosynthetic activity.