What Do Plant Cells Have That Animal Cells Don't

Plant and animal cells share many similarities, including a nucleus, cell membrane, and cytoplasm. However, there are also some key differences between them, with one of the most notable being that plant cells have something that animal cells don't - a cell wall.

The Cell Wall

The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells. It is made up of cellulose, a carbohydrate that gives the plant cell its strength and structure. The cell wall provides the plant with protection from physical damage and can also help regulate the plant's water balance.

Animal cells, on the other hand, do not have a cell wall. Instead, they rely on their cell membranes and the connective tissues in their bodies to provide structure and protection.

Chloroplasts

Another major difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of chloroplasts in plant cells. Chloroplasts are organelles responsible for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, a pigment that gives plants their green color.

Animal cells do not have chloroplasts, as they are not capable of photosynthesis. Instead, animal cells rely on other organelles, such as mitochondria, to generate energy.

Vacuoles

Plant cells also have larger vacuoles than animal cells. Vacuoles are membrane-bound organelles that store water, salts, and other nutrients. In plant cells, the vacuole can take up to 90% of the cell's volume.

Animal cells also have vacuoles, but they are generally smaller and less significant than those found in plant cells.

Conclusion

While plant and animal cells share many similarities, there are also some key differences between them. Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and larger vacuoles, features that animal cells do not possess. These differences reflect the unique evolutionary adaptations that have allowed plants to survive and thrive in their environments.