Structure Of Plant And Animal Cells - SS1 Biology Lesson Note

Plant and animal cells are the two main types of eukaryotic cells found in living organisms. While they share some similarities, there are also distinct differences between them. Here are some key features of plant and animal cells:

Figure 45 Image from rsscience.org

PLANT CELLS:

1.     Cell Wall: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall composed primarily of cellulose. It provides structural support and protection for the cell.

2.     Chloroplasts: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the pigment that captures sunlight for energy production.

3.     Large Central Vacuole: Plant cells typically have a large central vacuole that occupies a significant portion of the cell's volume. The vacuole stores water, nutrients, and waste products and helps maintain cell turgidity.

4.     Plasmodesmata: Plant cells are connected through plasmodesmata, microscopic channels that allow for the exchange of substances and communication between adjacent cells.

5.     No Centrioles: Plant cells do not have centrioles, which are involved in cell division in animal cells.

6.     Amyloplasts: Some plant cells contain amyloplasts, which store starch as a form of energy reserve.

Figure 46 Image from flexbooks.ck12.org

ANIMAL CELLS:

1.     No Cell Wall: Animal cells lack a cell wall. Instead, they are surrounded by a plasma membrane that provides structure and controls the movement of substances into and out of the cell.

2.     No Chloroplasts: Animal cells do not contain chloroplasts since they do not undergo photosynthesis. They obtain energy through other means, such as consuming organic matter or through cellular respiration.

3.     Smaller Vacuoles: Animal cells may contain small vacuoles, but they are not as prominent as the central vacuole in plant cells.

4.     Centrioles: Animal cells have centrioles, which are involved in cell division and the formation of the spindle apparatus during mitosis.

5.     No Plasmodesmata: Animal cells do not have plasmodesmata. Instead, they rely on direct contact or specialized junctions for intercellular communication.

6.     Lysosomes: Animal cells contain lysosomes, which are organelles involved in the digestion and recycling of cellular waste and debris.

Figure 47 Image from quora.com

Both plant and animal cells share common organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and ribosomes, which are essential for cellular functions like protein synthesis, energy production, and cellular communication. However, the specific structures and functions within these organelles may vary between plant and animal cells based on their respective requirements and specialized roles in the organism.

 

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