Plants scanning electron microscopic studies

In addition to the identification of seeds, nuts, fruits, and tree species, the investigation of charred plant remains has recently advanced to the other tissue. In particular, SEM [Scanning Electron Microscope] studies have been able to identify charred parenchymous tissues. Parenchyma is the most common plant tissue and makes up the bulk of the primary plant body, including the leaves, flowers, roots, the pulp of fruits, and the pith of stems in woody plants. The thin-walled parenchyma cells have large empty spaces and distinctive intercellular areas (Fig. 5.3). 

Pedroso, M.C. Pais, M.S. (1992). A scanning electron microscope and x-ray microanalysis study during induction of morphogenesis in Camellia japonica L. Plant Science, Vol. 87, No. 1, pp. 99-108, ISSN 0168-9452... 

Figure 1. Scanning electron photomicrographs of minerals from coals. The minerals were studied and photographed by a Cambridge Stereoscan microscope with an accessory energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometer at the Center for Electron Microscopy, University of Illinois. A. Pyrite framboids from the low-temperature ash of a sample from the DeKoven Coal Member. B. Pyrite cast of plant cells from the low-temperature ash of a sample from the Colchester (No. 2) Coal Member. C. Kaolinite (left) and sphalerite (right) in minerals from a cleat (vertical fracture), Herrin (No. 6) Coal Member. D. Calcite from a cleat in the Herrin (No. 6) Coal Member. E. Kaolinite books from a cleat in the Herrin (No. 6) Coal Member. F. Galena small crystals in the low-temperature ash of a sample from the DeKoven Coal Member.

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