Tracheids are elongated cells with thick and (A)_____ walls and (B)_____ ends.

Answer

To answer the question regarding tracheids, we need to fill in the blanks with the appropriate descriptions of their walls and ends.

1. **Understanding Tracheids**:
- Tracheids are specialized cells found in the xylem of vascular plants. Their primary function is to conduct water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.

2. **Characteristics of Tracheids**:
- **Walls**: The walls of tracheids are described as being thick. This is important for their function as they need to withstand the pressure of water transport. Additionally, these walls are lignified, which means they contain lignin, a complex organic polymer that provides rigidity and strength.
- **Ends**: The ends of tracheids are not flat; instead, they are pointed or tapering. This tapering shape facilitates the flow of water through the xylem and allows for better connection with adjacent tracheids.

3. **Filling in the Blanks**:
- (A) For the first blank regarding the walls, the correct term is "lignified".
- (B) For the second blank regarding the ends, the correct term is "tapering".

Thus, the complete statement would be:
"Tracheids are elongated cells with thick and **lignified** walls and **tapering** ends."