There are many different types of cells in the world including plant cells and animal cells. While they may look very similar, some key differences set them apart.
Comparing Animal Cells vs Plant Cells
Animal cells and plant cells share many common features, such as a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes. However, there are also several important differences between these two types of cells.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Size
One of the most noticeable differences between plant and animal cells is their size. Plant cells are usually much larger than animal cells.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Shape
Another difference between plant and animal cells is their shape. Plant cells are often more square-shaped, while animal cells are more round.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Cell Wall
One of the most important differences between plant and animal cells is the presence of a cell wall. The cell wall is a thick, outer layer that surrounds plant cells. This extra layer provides support and protection for the plant cell. Animal cells do not have a cell wall.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Chloroplasts
Perhaps the most defining difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are organelles that are unique to plant cells. They are responsible for photosynthesis, the process of converting light into energy that can be used by plants to grow. Animal cells do not have chloroplasts.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Vacuoles
Plant cells often have a single large vacuole. Vacuoles are spaces that store water, nutrients, and other materials. Animal cells typically have smaller vacuoles and many of them.
Plant vs Animal Cells: Nucleus
The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It houses the DNA, which contains the genetic information for the cell. In animal cells, the nucleus is typically located near the center of the cell. In a plant cell, the nucleus is often located towards one side.