Key differences between plants and animals - JSS1 Basic science Lesson Note

Plants and animals are two distinct forms of life on Earth with several key differences:

 

Cell Structure: Plants have cell walls composed of cellulose, while animal cells lack cell walls. Animal cells typically have specialized structures like lysosomes and centrioles, which are absent in plant cells.

 

Nutrition: Plants are autotrophs, meaning they produce their own food through photosynthesis, using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Animals are heterotrophs, relying on consuming other organisms for energy.

 

Mobility: Most plants are stationary, rooted in the ground, although some exhibit limited movement. Animals, on the other hand, are generally mobile, capable of moving from one place to another to find food, mates, or shelter.

 

Reproduction: Plants can reproduce sexually through the fusion of gametes or asexually through methods like budding or vegetative propagation. Animals primarily reproduce sexually, involving the fusion of gametes from two individuals.

 

Respiration: Plants carry out respiration, but unlike animals, they also perform photosynthesis, producing oxygen as a byproduct. Animals rely solely on respiration to obtain oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

 

Response to Environment: While both plants and animals respond to their environment, their mechanisms differ. Plants respond to stimuli like light, gravity, and touch through growth movements or hormone release. Animals have complex nervous systems enabling them to respond rapidly to stimuli through behaviors or physiological changes.