If cell membrane does the same function in both plants and animals,why is the cell wall important in plant cells but not in animal cells?
Answers
Answer:
Cell membrane is required in plants as it protect it's outer cover. Whereas animals do not have cell membrane as it makes them stiff and also they will not be able to function well.
Cell wall is important in plants as it protects the plant from extreme external conditions.
Cell wall is made up of cellulose and pectin, it makes the cell rigid and protects it against external conditions and pathogens. It is the outermost layer, ensuring structure and support for the cell. It is a thick membrane which grows over time. Functions of a cell wall are:
- Provide rigid cell structure and protection.
- It regulates intercellular transport, it is a permeable membrane (substances can enter and exit the cell).
- Prevent osmotic damage, as the plant derives water and nutrients by osmosis it needs as tough structure to prevent rupture of cell.
- The protoplasm (contents of the cell including cell membrane, cytoplasm and all cell organelles.
Cell membrane is a layer found beneath the cell wall among plant cells. It is thin and delicate and also known as plasma membrane. It does not grow over a period of time. It helps in containing the cytoplasm and cell organelles in both plants and animal cells. It aids in cell division, metabolic activities but cannot provide protection to the cell against tough external conditions