What are some of the key differences between animal and plant cells?

Possibly the most noticeable difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of chloroplasts containing chlorophyll in the plant cells. This chlorophyll is used in photosynthesis, to convert sunlight into energy. Animal cells do not photosynthesise, so they do not have an chloroplasts or chlorophyll.Other notable differences include plant cells having a cell wall as well as a cell membrane. This additional cell wall gives the plant cell more structure and rigidity. Animal cells only have a cell membrane. Plant cells also often have large vacuoles for storing nutrients. Some animal cells will have vacuoles too, but these are much smaller.

SN

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What do you understand by gene cloning?


Which muscles in the gut wall are involved in peristalsis?


Explain what happens when an impulse arrvies at a junction between two neurones


What kind of reaction is photosynthesis and what is it's product used for?