Plant vs. Animal Cells:
- Cell Wall: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose that provides shape, support, and protection. Animal cells lack a cell wall.
- Chloroplasts: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are green organelles that capture sunlight for photosynthesis (food production). Animal cells don’t have chloroplasts.
- Vacuole: Plant cells typically have a large central vacuole for storing water, waste products, and nutrients. Animal cells may have small vacuoles, but they’re not as prominent.
- Shape: Plant cells are often rectangular or box-shaped due to the cell wall. Animal cells have more varied shapes, round or irregular, because they lack a rigid wall.
| Characteristic | Plant Cells | Animal Cells |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Wall | Have cell wall | Lack cell wall |
| Chloroplasts | Have chloroplasts | Lack chloroplasts |
| Vacuole | Have large vacuole | Have small vacuoles |
| Shape | Rectangular/box-like | Varied shapes |