Plant and Animal Cells Comparison

Plant and Animal Cells - Similarities and Differences

• Both plant and animal cells are eukaryotic cells, containing membrane-bound organelles.
• Both types contain a cell membrane that regulates the transport of substances in and out of the cell.
• Both cell types include cytoplasm, which contains various organelles, including mitochondria.
• Plant cells usually have chloroplasts for photosynthesis.
• Animal cells typically have more mitochondria to produce energy through respiration.
• Plant cells have a cell wall for structural support.
• Plant cells contain a large central vacuole.
• Animal cells do not have a cell wall or large central vacuole.

Cell Organelles

• Cell membrane: Controls the transport of substances into and out of the cell.
• Cytoplasm: A jelly-like substance that fills the cell and contains the organelles.
• Mitochondria: The powerhouse of the cell, where respiration occurs, producing energy in the form of ATP.
• Chloroplasts: Found in plant cells, responsible for photosynthesis to produce glucose.
• Vacuoles: Membrane-bound sacs to store water, nutrients, or waste materials.
• Nucleus: Contains the cell's DNA, controlling cell activities.

Plant Cell Specifics

• Chloroplasts are organelles involved in photosynthesis for energy production.
• Cell wall provides structure and support for the cell.
• A large central vacuole is present to maintain cell turgor pressure.

Animal Cell Specifics

• Animal cells tend to have more mitochondria due to relying on respiration for energy.
• Often lacks a cell wall and a central vacuole.

Mitochondria Function

• Found in most eukaryotic cells.
• Generate most of the cell's energy in the form of ATP.
• Contain their own DNA and ribosomes.

Ribosomes

• Involved in protein synthesis.
• Found in the cytoplasm and on the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
• Composed of ribosomal RNA and proteins.