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Question

Difficulty: EasyCell Structure and Function

Which cellular structure provides a rigid outer layer of support and protection in plant cells, but is absent in animal cells?

  1. A
    Cell membrane
  2. Cell wallAnswer
  3. C
    Chloroplast
  4. D
    Mitochondrion

Answer

Cell wall
Plant cells possess a rigid outer cell wall made mostly of cellulose that surrounds the cell membrane to maintain structural integrity, withstand turgor pressure, and protect the cell. Animal cells lack a cell wall and have only a flexible cell membrane.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structural requirements stated in the question.
The target component must provide rigid outer support and exist in plant cells while being absent in animal cells.
Plant and animal cells share several core organelles but differ in external structural boundaries.
2
Evaluate the candidate cellular structures against the requirements.
The cell wall is a tough external layer made of cellulose found in plant cells but absent in animal cells.
Animal cells are surrounded solely by a flexible cell membrane, whereas plant cells have an outer cell wall outside their membrane.

Key Concept

Distinguishing plant and animal cell structures
Estimated Time:35s
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Topics

Cell Structure and Function

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