What is a key feature of differentiated plant root hair cells?

A key feature of differentiated plant root hair cells is that they have a large surface area. This adaptation is crucial for their primary function, which is the absorption of water and minerals from the soil. The extended structure of root hairs increases the cell's surface area significantly, allowing for more efficient uptake of these essential nutrients and water. This is particularly important since the concentrations of nutrients in the soil can be quite low.

The other options do not accurately describe root hair cells or their functions. For example, root hair cells are generally not thicker than other plant cells; rather, they are specialized to be slender and elongated to access soil more effectively. They do not typically divide rapidly; instead, they form from the differentiation of existing root cells. Additionally, root hair cells are specifically found in the roots of plants, not in the leaves, where other types of cells would be present for functions such as photosynthesis. This specialization underscores the importance of root hair cells in overall plant health and nutrient acquisition.