Comparing Plant and Animal Cells

Plant cells and animal cells are both eukaryotic cells, meaning they have a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, but there are some key differences between the two. Here's a comparison of plant and animal cells:

1. Cell Wall:

   • Plant Cell: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall composed primarily of cellulose. The cell wall provides structural support and protection.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells lack a cell wall. Instead, they are surrounded by a flexible plasma membrane.
     
     
2. Chloroplasts:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis, the process of converting sunlight into energy.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells do not contain chloroplasts. They are incapable of photosynthesis.
     
     
3. Vacuole:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells typically have a large central vacuole that stores water, nutrients, and waste products. It also plays a role in maintaining turgor pressure.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells have smaller and sometimes multiple vacuoles, which are primarily involved in storage and transport of substances.
     
     
4. Lysosomes:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells may have lysosomes, but they are less common. Lysosomes contain enzymes for digestion and waste removal.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells commonly contain lysosomes, which are essential for intracellular digestion and recycling.
     
     
5. Centrioles:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells lack centrioles, which are involved in cell division (mitosis and meiosis) and the organization of microtubules during cell division.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells have centrioles, which are essential for the formation of the spindle fibers during cell division.
     
     
6. Shape:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells often have a more regular and rectangular shape due to the rigid cell wall.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells have a more varied and irregular shape.
     
     
7. Mobility:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells are generally stationary and do not exhibit mobility.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells are often mobile, and they can move and change shape.
     
     
8. Energy Storage:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells store excess energy in the form of starch.
   • Animal Cell: Animal cells store excess energy in the form of glycogen.
     
     
9. Cilia and Flagella:
   • Plant Cell: Plant cells do not have cilia or flagella.
   • Animal Cell: Some animal cells, such as those in the respiratory tract, may have cilia for movement, and sperm cells have flagella for propulsion.

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Plant and Animal Cell Resources

Comparing Plant and Animal Cells

Cheek Cell Lab –   observe cheek cells under the microscope

Observing Plant Cells  –  microscope observation of onion and elodea

Investigation: What are the Different Types of Cells – survey of different kinds of cells, cheek, blood, onion root, leaf

Microscope Slides: Human Cheek Cells