- Both animal and plant cells are eukaryotic, meaning they have a nucleus enclosed in a membrane and contain membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes.
- Both cell types have a plasma membrane that regulates the passage of materials in and out of the cell, and both contain cytoplasm where cellular processes occur.
- Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose outside the plasma membrane, which provides structural support and protection; animal cells lack a cell wall and only have a flexible plasma membrane.
- Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which carry out photosynthesis to convert light energy into chemical energy; animal cells do not have chloroplasts.
- Mature plant cells typically have a large central vacuole that stores water, ions, and waste products and helps maintain turgor pressure; animal cells may have multiple smaller vacuoles but lack a large central vacuole.
- Animal cells often have centrioles involved in cell division; most plant cells do not have centrioles.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of plant cell coloring worksheet key.
