Download Cell wall Single large vacuole Chloroplasts

There are many similarities between plant and animal cells; however, there are also several key
differences. For example, animal cells are bigger and less regular in shape and size than those of
plants, which are generally regimented in appearance. Take a look at the main structures in a plant
cell that are absent in animal cells.
Cell wall
While both animal and plant cells have a thin cell membrane that controls what goes in and out, plants
differ in that they also have a cell wall made of cellulose. This rigid outer wall enables the plant to hold
a lot of moisture under pressure without popping, while also providing essential structural integrity.
The contents of an animal cell, meanwhile, are held by the cell membrane alone. Animals tend to rely
on endo- and exo-skeletons for support.
Single large vacuole
Plant cells also contain a single, extra-large vacuole, which takes up most of the space in the cell and
keeps it plump and turgid. Some animal cells do contain vacuoles, but they are always much smaller
and never take up this much space.
Chloroplasts
Plants manufacture their own food (glucose) from sunlight, water and carbon dioxide, but humans and
animals must absorb food obtained from plants and other living creatures. The difference is that plant
cells contain chloroplasts – the structures that contain the green, sunlight-absorbing chlorophyll
pigment – in which photosynthesis can take place.