Which sentence correctly describes the dirferences between plant and animal cells regards to cell walls and
To determine the differences between plant and animal cells regarding cell walls, you need to understand the structures and characteristics of each type of cell.
1. Plant Cells:
- Cell Wall: Plant cells have a rigid, sturdy cell wall made primarily of cellulose. The cell wall provides structural support, protection, and shape to the cell.
- Animal Cells: Animal cells do not have a cell wall. Instead, they have a flexible cell membrane that gives the cell its shape and controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Now, let's compare the two:
- Plant cells have cell walls made of cellulose, while animal cells lack a cell wall.
- The cell wall in plant cells provides rigidity and support, whereas animal cells rely on their flexible cell membrane for shape and support.
- Due to the presence of a cell wall, plant cells are generally more resistant to mechanical stress and have a fixed shape. Animal cells, on the other hand, can change shape more easily.
- Plant cell walls also play a role in preventing excessive water uptake, acting as a barrier, and resisting pathogens. Animal cells lack these specific functionalities.
In summary, the key difference between plant and animal cells regarding cell walls is that plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose, which provides support and protection, whereas animal cells lack a cell wall and instead rely on a flexible cell membrane for shape and support.