PLANTS AND ANIMALS CELLS

What is cell?
A cell is the basic structural and function unit of all living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life that can replicate independently and perform essential biological processes. Cells are often referred toas the building block of life because they make up all living things, from single celled organisms like bacteria to complex multicellular organisms such as human.

Types of cells  

• Prokaryotic cells: These are simpler cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria and archaea are examples of prokaryotic cells.

• Eukaryotic cells: These cells have a defined nucleus containing their genetic materials and various membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells include those found in animals, plant, fungi, and protists.

Plants and animal's cell's structure.
Both animals and plant cells are eukaryotic, meaning they have a true nucleus and various organelles that perform specific functions. however, their structure exhibit significant difference due to their distinct role in the organism's life processes.

 Shape 

• Animal cell: Exhibit a variety of shapes, often round or irregular due to their flexible membrane.

• Plant cells: Usually have a more rigid structure, commonly rectangular due to the presence of a cell wall. 

Cell wall

• Animals cell: Do not possess a cell wall; instead, they have only plasma membrane that provide some structural support.

• Plant cells: Have a rigid cell wall made primarily of cellulose which, which provide structural support and protection. 

Organelles 

• Nucleus: Both types contain a nucleus that houses DNA.

• Mitochondria: present in both cell type for energy production through cellular respiration.

• Chloroplasts: Found only in plant cells; these organelles are essential for photosynthesis.

• Vacuoles: Animals cell may have small vacuole
•                 Plant cells typically contain on large cental vacuole that maintains turgor pressure and store substances.

Energy storage 

• Animal's cells: Store energy as glycogen.

• Plant cell: Store energy as starch.