You have been assigned the task of identifying the cells in a plant tissue sample. using your microscope you determine the cells are living and their cell walls vary in thickness. upon further observation you note that the cells are arranged in strands just below the epidermal surface. what cell type do you determine the cells to be?

The correct answer is Collenchyma.

The collenchyma cells are lengthened cells with uneven thick cell walls, which are responsible for structure and support. Their thick walls comprises of the compounds pectin and cellulose. These cells are generally found below the epidermis, or the outer layers of cells in leaf veins and in young stems.

These cells provide structural support, mainly in developing leaves and shoots. The strength of the tissue comes from these condensed cell walls and the longitudinal meshing of the cells.