Question
GeneralGeneralGeneral

Differentiate between plant cell and animal cell.

Verified Answer

Plant cells and animal cells are both eukaryotic cells but differ in structure and function.

Plant cells have a rigid cell wall outside the cell membrane, which provides support and protection. They contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Plant cells also have a large central vacuole that maintains cell turgidity and stores substances.

Animal cells do not have a cell wall or chloroplasts. They have only a cell membrane as the outer boundary. Vacuoles in animal cells are smaller and less prominent. Animal cells are usually more flexible in shape.

Another difference is that plant cells can produce their own food through photosynthesis, while animal cells depend on external sources for nutrition.

Thus, while both types of cells share basic components like nucleus and cytoplasm, their structures reflect their different functions.