Final answer:
Animal cells are comprised of approximately 70% to 75% water, which is essential for the cellular functions and chemical reactions required for life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Water is a vital component of animal cells, constituting about 70% to 75% of their total content. However, when frozen, water's expansion can damage or burst cells, impacting cell preservation techniques. This high percentage is crucial as water serves as an aqueous medium where most cellular reactions take place. The polar nature of water molecules also plays an essential role in the functioning of cells, enabling necessary chemical reactions and interactions. The presence of water is what allows cells to maintain their integrity and perform physiological processes that sustain life.
However, it's important to note that when water freezes, it can lead to cell damage due to expansion, which can destroy up to 30% of biological cells, posing challenges for preservation methods such as cryonics.