Plant Cell Walls and Their Functions

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Questions and Answers

Which cell wall component is most directly responsible for the structural strength and rigidity of the cell wall?

  • Pectin
  • Cellulose (correct)
  • Lignin
  • Hemicellulose

What is the primary function of pectin in the cell wall?

  • Acts as a glue to bind other components together (correct)
  • Increases the flexibility of the wall
  • Provides structural support
  • Helps regulate water permeability

Which of the following statements accurately describes the role of lignin in the cell wall?

  • It is the main structural component of the primary cell wall.
  • It forms plasmodesmata, connecting adjacent cells.
  • It is only found in the secondary cell wall and is the primary component of wood. (correct)
  • It helps regulate water permeability.

Identify the incorrect statement about hemicellulose's role in the cell wall.

<p>It is deposited as unbranched fibers, influencing the direction of cell expansion. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a way that the cell wall can participate in signaling between cells?

<p>Expansins selectively blocking molecules from passing through the cell wall. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Cell expansion is an unregulated process dictated by the amount of water in the cell

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Cellulose

The structural base component of the cell wall, acting like rebar.

Pectin

A component that acts like glue to hold together cell wall components and adjacent cells.

Lignin

A component found only in the secondary cell wall and is the basis of wood.

Hemicellulose

A branched structure that cross-links cellulose fibers, increasing cell wall strength.

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Cell expansion

A regulated process influenced by water content and other active processes, not an unregulated one.

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Study Notes

Cell Wall Components

  • Cellulose forms the structural base of the cell wall, acting like rebar.
  • Pectin acts as a glue, holding together components and adjacent cells.
  • Lignin is found only in the secondary cell wall and is the basis of wood.

Hemicellulose and Cell Expansion

  • Hemicellulose is branched, cross-linking cellulose fibers to strengthen the cell wall.
  • Cellulose, not hemicellulose, is deposited as unbranched fibers, influencing cell expansion direction.
  • Cell expansion is a regulated process; water, acidification, expansin activity, and cellulose fiber orientation all influence it.

Cell Wall Signaling

  • Wall fragments can serve as defense or developmental cues.
  • The porous nature of the cell wall allows molecules to pass through.
  • Forming plasmodesmata increases cytoplasm connection.
  • Expansins do not selectively block molecules from passing through the cell wall.

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