Chloroplasts play an important role in energy production in plant cells. However, some parts of a plant, like the roots, lack chloroplasts. In one to two sentences, explain the most likely pathway for root cells to obtain energy, and identify the organelles involved. (2 points)

Root cells likely obtain energy through the process of cellular respiration, which occurs in the mitochondria.

In three to five sentences, explain why animal cells do not require a cell wall or a central vacuole for their functions.(4 points)

Animal cells do not require a cell wall because they have a flexible plasma membrane that allows them to change shape and move more easily. The presence of a cell wall is necessary for plants to provide structural support and prevent the cell from bursting due to the osmotic pressure generated by the central vacuole. Additionally, animal cells do not require a central vacuole because they are generally smaller and have more specialized organelles for specific functions, such as lysosomes for waste disposal and storage organelles for nutrient storage. The absence of a central vacuole allows animal cells to have a higher concentration of organelles, resulting in a more diverse range of functions and greater adaptability.

In three to five sentences, compare the process of digesting food in an amoeba (unicellular) to those in a mouse (multicellular) .

In an amoeba, the process of digesting food involves the engulfment of food particles by extending pseudopods and forming a food vacuole. Digestive enzymes are then released into the food vacuole to break down the food into simpler molecules, which are absorbed directly into the cytoplasm. In contrast, in a mouse, digestion begins in the mouth with the mechanical breaking down of food by chewing and the mixing of food with saliva containing amylase. The mixture then travels down the esophagus, through the stomach where it is further broken down by gastric acid and enzymes, and finally to the small intestine where nutrients are absorbed across the intestinal lining into the bloodstream for distribution to different cells and tissues. The mouse also possesses accessory organs such as the liver and pancreas, which produce and release digestive enzymes and bile for further breakdown and absorption of nutrients.

simplify

Root cells obtain energy through the process of cellular respiration, which occurs in the mitochondria, the organelles responsible for converting nutrients into ATP, the cell's primary energy source.