Give 3 characteristics of cells that are different comparing plant and animal cells found in the unit. Sentences need at least 5-6.
1) One key difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of a cell wall in plant cells. Plant cells have a rigid cell wall composed of cellulose, which provides structural support and protection to the cell. Animal cells, on the other hand, lack a cell wall and have a flexible extracellular matrix instead.
2) Another distinguishing feature is the presence of chloroplasts in plant cells. Chloroplasts are organelles responsible for photosynthesis and contain the pigment chlorophyll. Animal cells do not possess chloroplasts as they rely on external sources for obtaining organic nutrients.
3) Vacuoles in plant and animal cells also differ greatly in size and function. Plant cells typically have a large central vacuole that occupies a significant portion of the cell volume. This vacuole helps in maintaining cell turgidity, storing water, and regulating cell growth. Animal cells have smaller vacuoles that mainly function in storing waste materials or molecules temporarily.