Final answer:
Plant cells contain unique structures not found in animal cells: the cell wall, large central vacuole, and plastids, including chloroplasts, which are vital for photosynthesis and plant support. Parenchymal cells are versatile and contribute to photosynthesis, storage, and repair.
Step-by-step explanation:
Unique Plant Cell Structures and Functions
Three structures found in plant cells but not in animal cells include the cell wall, large central vacuole, and plastids such as chloroplasts. The cell wall is made predominantly of cellulose and protects the cell, maintains its shape, and prevents excessive water uptake. The large central vacuole acts as a storage center and helps maintain turgor pressure within the cell, which is essential for maintaining the cell's shape and supporting the plant. Plastids are responsible for manufacturing and storing various types of pigments; chloroplasts, in particular, contain chlorophyll and are key sites for photosynthesis, allowing plants to convert light energy into chemical energy.
Parenchymal Plant Cells
Parenchymal cells are common throughout the plant and serve a variety of functions depending on their location. They are involved in photosynthesis, storage, and tissue repair or regeneration. These cells help sustain plant growth and are pivotal in the plant's ability to adapt to the environment.