What are the main differences between plant and animal cells?


The main, obvious difference is that plants in general carry out photosynthesis using an organelle called a chloroplast. They convert (sun) light into chemical energy, glucose. Plants use this chemical energy to grow and reproduce and to feed their neighbor animal cells. Animals cannot carry out photosynthesis. They depend on plants for food somewhere in their food chain.


In general animals are motile. Animal cells are “flexible”, without a rigid exterior. Plants have cell walls, a rigid exterior. This can be used like bricks to build strong structures during growth. It is also used to retain pressure inside the cell that likewise aids in the rigid plant structure.

That’s a couple of differences. I am sure there are more you can find. Think about how can plant cells grow, divide and reproduce with such a rigid exterior.

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