Question 1 of 19intermediate🔍 AnalyzeShort Answer2 marks

What argument would you give for the necessity of a cell wall in plants usually fixed in one place versus in animals usually moving from one place to the other?

Correct Answer

Plants are usually fixed in one place and cannot move from place to place. Therefore, they need a rigid cell wall to withstand environmental stresses like wind and rain. The cell wall helps leaves and flowers remain firm, maintain their shapes, and helps plants stay upright against these stresses.

On the other hand, animals usually move from one place to another. Without a rigid cell wall, animal cells can change shape easily. This cellular flexibility supports the overall movement and functioning of animal tissues, allowing them to move freely.

Exercise: Pause and Ponder | Q: 1
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Explanation

The textbook explains that since plants are fixed and cannot move, they require a rigid cell wall for structural support against environmental stresses like wind and rain, and to maintain shape and stay upright. Conversely, animals move from place to place, and the absence of a rigid cell wall allows their cells to change shape easily, providing the cellular flexibility needed for movement and tissue functioning.