Passage cells are walled cells found in

Options

A. testa of seeds to enable emergence of growing embryonic axis during seed germination
B. central region of style through which the pollen tube grows towards the ovary
C. endodermis of roots facilitating repaid transport of water from cortex to pericycle
D. phloem elements that serve as entry points for substances for transport to other plant parts

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Passage Cells**: Passage cells are specialized thin-walled cells that are part of the endodermis in plant roots. They are characterized by the absence of Casparian strips, which are typically present in other endodermal cells.

2. **Location of Passage Cells**: These cells are located opposite to the protoxylem cells within the endodermis. The endodermis serves as a barrier that regulates the flow of water and nutrients from the soil into the vascular system of the plant.

3. **Function of Passage Cells**: The primary function of passage cells is to facilitate the movement of water and minerals from the cortex (the outer layer of the root) to the pericycle (the layer of cells just inside the endodermis). Because they lack Casparian strips, they allow for easier transport compared to other endodermal cells.

4. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option A**: Passage cells are not found in the testa of seeds; this option is incorrect.
- **Option B**: While the style does have cells that facilitate pollen tube growth, passage cells are not located here; this option is incorrect.
- **Option C**: This option correctly identifies the location and function of passage cells in the endodermis of roots, facilitating rapid transport of water from the cortex to the pericycle; this option is correct.
- **Option D**: Phloem elements do not contain passage cells; this option is incorrect.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **Option C**: "endodermis of roots facilitating rapid transport of water from cortex to the pericycle."

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