- A Living, thin-walled cells used for storage
- B Dead, thick-walled cells that provide rigid support
- C Chloroplast-containing cells for photosynthesis
- D Elongated cells specialized for conducting water
Correct answer: B. Dead, thick-walled cells that provide rigid support
Explanation: Sclerenchyma cells are dead at maturity with uniformly thick, lignified walls. They provide rigid mechanical support. Types: fibres (long, narrow) and sclereids (isodiametric, stone cells in pear grit).
Concept context
Internal tissue organisation: meristems, permanent tissues (xylem, phloem, parenchyma), and secondary growth. Frequently tested in NEET.