Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

Which characteristic distinguishes plant cells from animal cells?

1. Animal cells have chloroplasts

2. Plant cells have cell walls

3. Animal cells have large vacuoles

4. Plant cells lack a nucleus

The correct answer is: Plant cells have cell walls

The characteristic that distinguishes plant cells from animal cells is that plant cells have cell walls. Cell walls provide structural support and give plant cells their rigid shape, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of plant tissues. This feature is primarily composed of cellulose, a carbohydrate that offers both strength and protection. In contrast, animal cells do not have cell walls; instead, they possess a flexible plasma membrane that allows for a variety of shapes and movement. The structural differences between plant and animal cells are significant in terms of their functions and roles in the ecosystem. While it is true that animal cells can have vacuoles, these are usually smaller and not as prominent as the large central vacuole typically found in plant cells, which is important for storing nutrients and helping maintain turgor pressure. The presence of chloroplasts is exclusive to plant cells, allowing them to perform photosynthesis, while both plant and animal cells contain nuclei, which are vital for cellular function.