Plants vs. Animals – Completed Worksheet
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Table: Organelles/Characteristics
|
Organelles/Characteristics |
Animal Cell |
Plant Cell |
|-------------------------------|------------------|-----------------|
| Cell Wall |
✘ |
✔ |
| Cell Membrane |
✔ |
✔ |
| Central Vacuole |
✘ |
✔ |
| Chloroplasts |
✘ |
✔ |
| Nucleus |
✔ |
✔ |
| DNA inside the nucleus |
✔ |
✔ |
| Mitochondria |
✔ |
✔ |
| Ribosomes |
✔ |
✔ |
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How do plant cells differ from animal cells?
Plant cells and animal cells share many similarities, such as having a nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, and a cell membrane. However, there are key differences that distinguish them:
1.
Cell Wall: Plant cells have a rigid
cell wall made of cellulose, which provides structural support and protection. Animal cells
do not have a cell wall; they only have a flexible cell membrane.
2.
Chloroplasts: Plant cells contain
chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis (converting sunlight into energy). Animal cells
lack chloroplasts because they obtain energy by consuming food.
3.
Central Vacuole: Plant cells have a large
central vacuole that stores water, maintains turgor pressure, and helps in waste management. In contrast, animal cells have
smaller vacuoles that are temporary and not as prominent.
4.
Shape: Due to the cell wall, plant cells are typically
rectangular or fixed in shape, while animal cells are more
irregular and flexible.
5.
Lysosomes: While both may have lysosomes, they are more common in animal cells. Plant cells often rely on other organelles for digestion.
6.
Storage: Plant cells store energy as
starch, whereas animal cells store energy as
glycogen.
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✔ Summary:
The main differences between plant and animal cells lie in the presence of a
cell wall,
chloroplasts, and a
large central vacuole in plant cells. These structures allow plants to perform photosynthesis and maintain rigidity. Animal cells lack these features but are more flexible and specialized for movement and rapid response.
This worksheet helps students understand the structural and functional differences between plant and animal cells, reinforcing concepts in biology.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of animal cells vs plant cells worksheet.
