Question

Figure 3.7 What structures does a plant cell have that an animal cell does not have? What structures does an animal cell have that a plant cell does not have?

Short answer

Plant cells have cell walls, chloroplasts, and large central vacuoles, which are not found in animal cells. In contrast, animal cells possess lysosomes and centrioles, which are not present in plant cells.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the structures in a plant cell

A typical plant cell contains the following structures: cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, ribosomes, mitochondria, chloroplasts, vacuole, and peroxisomes. It is important to remember that not all plant cells have all these structures, but these are the common ones found in most plant cells.

Identify the structures in an animal cell

An animal cell typically contains the following structures: cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, ribosomes, mitochondria, lysosomes, centrioles, and peroxisomes. Again, not all animal cells have all these structures, but these are the common ones found in most animal cells.

Determine the unique structures in plant cells

Upon comparing the structures in both plant and animal cells, we can identify the unique structures in plant cells that are not present in animal cells: cell wall, chloroplasts, and large central vacuole. - The cell wall is a rigid layer made of cellulose that surrounds the cell membrane, providing support and protection to the plant cell. - Chloroplasts are organelles responsible for carrying out photosynthesis, which enables plants to convert sunlight into energy. - The large central vacuole is a structure that stores water, nutrients, and waste products, helping maintain the cell's turgor pressure.

Determine the unique structures in animal cells

Analyzing the differences in structures, we can determine the unique structures in animal cells that are not present in plant cells: lysosomes and centrioles. - Lysosomes are organelles containing enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris. - Centrioles are structures involved in cell division, particularly in the formation of the spindle fibers that help separate chromosomes during mitosis. In conclusion, plant cells have cell walls, chloroplasts, and large central vacuoles that are not found in animal cells. On the other hand, animal cells possess lysosomes and centrioles, which are not present in plant cells.

Key concepts

Plant Cell Structures

Plant cells have unique structures that allow them to fulfill specific roles in nature. One of these is the **cell wall**, which is a protective, rigid layer made primarily of cellulose. It surrounds the cell membrane and provides structural support, helping the plant maintain its shape.
Another key feature is the **chloroplasts**. These organelles are crucial as they carry out photosynthesis, enabling plants to convert sunlight into energy in the form of glucose, which then serves as food for the plant.
The **large central vacuole** is another important structure. It functions as storage, holding water, nutrients, and waste products. This vacuole maintains turgor pressure, which helps keep the plant upright.
In summary, these unique structures - the cell wall, chloroplasts, and large central vacuole - differentiate plant cells from animal cells and are essential for their survival and function.

Animal Cell Structures

Animal cells are distinct from plant cells by some unique structures that are critical for their functions. **Lysosomes** are one of these, containing enzymes that digest excess or worn-out organelles, food particles, and engulfed viruses or bacteria. This ensures that waste is properly managed within the cell.
Another exclusive feature of animal cells is the presence of **centrioles**. These are cylindrical structures involved in cell division. They help in the formation of the spindle fibers that separate chromosomes during mitosis.
Both lysosomes and centrioles perform vital functions that contribute to the overall workings of an animal cell, aiding in maintaining homeostasis and playing a role in reproduction.

Cell Organelles

Cell organelles are the tiny structures within cells that perform essential functions. Both plant and animal cells have organelles such as the **nucleus**, which acts as the control center of the cell, housing genetic information and coordinating activities like growth and reproduction.
The **endoplasmic reticulum (ER)** is another important organelle, playing a role in synthesizing proteins (in the rough ER) and lipids (in the smooth ER).
**Mitochondria** are present in both types of cells and are known as the powerhouse of the cell. They produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell, through cellular respiration.
**Golgi apparatus** further processes and packages proteins and lipids, preparing them for delivery to their respective destinations.
Despite sharing some common organelles, plant and animal cells have unique organelles that cater to their specific needs and environments.