Specialised Cells

Function

- Conducting an impulse around the body.

Adaptation

• Extensions of cytoplasm called dendrites - connects with other cells
• Very long cell - impulses can be carried long distances around the body
• Many mitochondria - Energy release for the synthesis of neuro-transmitter molecules

Function

- Slide across each other to allow the cell to contract and relax

Adaptation

• Contains many parallel protein filaments - can contract and relax and slide across each other to allow movement
• many mitochondria - release energy to move the protein filaments.
• Contain glycogen - can be broken down to release energy during cellular respiration.

Function

- carry out photosynthesis (oxygen + glucose (sunlight) --> carbon dioxide + water + (energy))

Adaptation

• Chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll - absorb light for photosynthesis
• large permanent vacuole - to give the cell structural support
• Found near the outside of plants - absorbs maximal light

Function

• Absorb mineral and water ions from the ground

Adaptation

• Many mitochondria - to absorb water
  
• Large permanent vacuole - storage of water and mineral ions
• Many mitochondria - release energy needed to move mineral ions into the cell.

Function

- Transport genetic information from the male parent to the egg cell.

Adaptation

• Small temporary vacuole - contains digestive enzymes for breaking down the outer layer of the egg cell.
• Long tail - locomotion
• Many mitochondria - energy for the tail to move