Identification of Sclerenchyma Tissue

Sclerenchyma tissue is a type of plant tissue that provides mechanical support and protection to the plant. It is composed of cells that have thick, lignified cell walls. The correct answer to identify sclerenchyma tissue among the given options is option 'D', which pertains to the thickness of the cell wall.

Explanation:

1. Parenchyma Tissue:
- Parenchyma tissue is one of the three types of simple plant tissues, along with collenchyma and sclerenchyma.
- It is composed of loosely packed cells with thin cell walls, which are usually alive at maturity.
- The cells of parenchyma tissue have a prominent nucleus, which can be located anywhere within the cell.
- Parenchyma cells are usually isodiametric in shape, meaning they have a similar length, width, and height.
- These cells are involved in various functions, such as photosynthesis, storage of nutrients, and gas exchange.

2. Sclerenchyma Tissue:
- Sclerenchyma tissue is another type of simple plant tissue that provides mechanical support and protection to the plant.
- Unlike parenchyma cells, sclerenchyma cells have thick, lignified cell walls, which provide rigidity and strength.
- The cell walls of sclerenchyma cells are impregnated with a substance called lignin, making them harder and more rigid.
- Due to the presence of lignin, sclerenchyma cells are usually dead at maturity.
- The cells of sclerenchyma tissue are elongated and have tapered ends.
- The nucleus is generally absent in mature sclerenchyma cells, as it degenerates during cell maturation.
- The primary function of sclerenchyma tissue is to provide mechanical support to the plant, especially in areas where rigidity is required, such as the stem and branches.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the correct way to identify sclerenchyma tissue among the given options is by observing the thickness of the cell wall. Sclerenchyma cells have thick, lignified cell walls, which distinguish them from other types of plant tissues. The position or absence of the nucleus, the size of the cell, or the location of the nucleus are not reliable indicators for identifying sclerenchyma tissue.