Final answer:
Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large central vacuole, while animal cells lack these structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Plant cells vs. Animal cells
Plant cells and animal cells have many similarities, but there are three key elements that differentiate them:
- Cell wall: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose, which provides support and protection. Animal cells do not have a cell wall, they have a flexible cell membrane instead.
- Chloroplasts: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Animal cells do not have chloroplasts.
- Vacuole: Plant cells have a large central vacuole that stores water, nutrients, and waste products. Animal cells have smaller, multiple vacuoles or none at all.
These differences allow plant cells to perform unique functions and support their function as autotrophs (organisms that can produce their own food) and non-locomotive beings.
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