What are the differences between plant and animal cells?

There are many differences between plant and animal cells, but one of the most obvious differences is that plant cells have a cell wall. Animal cells do not have a cell wall.

Cell walls give plant cells their shape and help regulate intercellular communication. The cell wall also allows water, oxygen and carbon dioxide to enter and exit plant cells. Plants use carbon dioxide and water to produce sugar during the process of photosynthesis.

Another important difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of chloroplasts in plant cells. Chloroplasts contain a pigment that absorbs the energy generated by the sun. Plants use this energy to power photosynthesis. Photosynthesis does not occur in animals, so there is no need for chloroplasts in animal cells.

Lysosomes are common in animal cells, but they are not usually found in plant cells. The lyososomes found in animal cells digest old cell parts and break down large food molecules.