Chloroplasts are specialised organelles that are common in leaf cells but mostly absent in root hair cells.Propose an explanation for this observation.

Chloroplasts are the organelles responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose or other sugars. This process requires light, water, and carbon dioxide.

Step 1: Understanding the role of chloroplasts Chloroplasts contain a pigment called chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy. This energy is then used to combine carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The glucose is used by the plant for energy and growth, while the oxygen is released into the atmosphere.

Step 2: Understanding the location of chloroplasts Chloroplasts are typically found in the cells of leaves and other green parts of plants. This is because these are the parts of the plant that are exposed to sunlight, which is necessary for photosynthesis to occur.

Step 3: Understanding the absence of chloroplasts in root hair cells Root hair cells, on the other hand, are located underground where there is no sunlight. Therefore, they do not contain chloroplasts because they are not involved in photosynthesis. Instead, root hair cells are specialized for the absorption of water and minerals from the soil.

Step 4: Conclusion In conclusion, chloroplasts are present in leaf cells and absent in root hair cells because of their role in photosynthesis. Leaf cells are exposed to sunlight and can carry out photosynthesis, while root hair cells are not exposed to sunlight and instead focus on absorbing water and minerals from the soil.