[Campbell Biology P.167] Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between the cell walls of plants and the extracellular matrix ECM of animal cells?

  • A: Both plant cell walls and animal ECM are rigid structures primarily composed of cellulose.
  • B: Plant cell walls are rigid structures mainly composed of cellulose, providing shape and protection, while animal ECM is a flexible network of glycoproteins and proteoglycans, providing support and adhesion.
  • C: Plant cell walls are located inside the plasma membrane, whereas animal ECM is found outside the plasma membrane.
  • D: Both plant cell walls and animal ECM prevent excessive water uptake and are present in all eukaryotic cells.

Explanation

Plant cell walls are rigid, cellulose-based structures that provide support, protection, and prevent excessive water uptake. Animal cells lack cell walls but have an extracellular matrix ECM , which is a flexible network of glycoproteins like collagen and proteoglycans that provides structural support and aids in cell adhesion and communication. Therefore, the key distinction lies in their composition, rigidity, and the specific functions they perform, as well as their presence in different cell types.