What are the differences between plant and animal cells?

Plant and animal cells differ in their structure, organelles, and functions.

Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose, which provides support and protection. Animal cells lack a cell wall but have a flexible cell membrane that regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell. Plant cells also have chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis, while animal cells do not. Additionally, plant cells have large central vacuoles that store water, nutrients, and waste products, whereas animal cells have smaller vacuoles or none at all.

Both plant and animal cells have a nucleus that contains genetic material, but plant cells have additional organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus that are involved in protein synthesis and transport. Animal cells have centrioles, which are involved in cell division, while plant cells do not.

In terms of function, plant cells are responsible for producing food through photosynthesis and storing energy in the form of starch. Animal cells are involved in various functions such as respiration, digestion, and movement.

Overall, while plant and animal cells share some similarities, their differences in structure and function reflect their unique roles in the living world.