The plant cell wall is a rigid, protective structure made primarily of cellulose that surrounds the plant cell membrane. Unlike animal cells, plant cells depend on this wall for structural support, shape maintenance, and protection against osmotic pressure in hypotonic environments.
đŋ Key Wall Functions
Provides structural support and shape
Protects against osmotic bursting
Made primarily of cellulose fibers
Allows plants to remain upright
Cellulose Power
Plant cell walls are so strong that cellulose is used to make paper, cardboard, and even some textiles - the same material that keeps plant cells from exploding!
đ¯ Learning Objectives
Understand cell wall structure and composition, learn how walls protect against osmotic pressure, and observe plasmolysis in plant cells.