Ima

Definition

Plant cells are the basic living units of plants. They have special parts that help plants make food, grow, and stay upright.

Main Points

• Plant cells have a cell wall for strength

• They contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis

• A large vacuole stores cell sap

• Cell sap helps keep the plant firm

• Plant cells can make their own food

Interesting Points

• Plant cells are usually rectangular in shape

• Only plant cells have chlorophyll

• Vacuoles can occupy most of the cell

• Without plant cells, food chains would break

 Main Parts of a Plant Cell

1. Cell Wall

   • A hard outer layer

   • Gives the cell shape and strength

2. Cell Membrane

   • Thin layer inside the cell wall

   • Controls what enters and leaves the cell

3. Cytoplasm

   • Jelly-like substance

   • Where most cell activities happen

4. Nucleus

   • The control center of the cell

   • Contains genetic material (DNA)

5. Chloroplasts 

   • Green structures

   • Contain chlorophyll

   • Help the plant make food by photosynthesis

6. Vacuole

   • Large storage sac

   • Stores water, food, and waste

   • Keeps the cell firm

7. Mitochondria

   • Powerhouse of the cell

   • Releases energy

Special Features of Plant Cells

• Have a cell wall

• Have chloroplasts

• Have a large central vacuole

(Animal cells do not have these!)

Fun Fact

The pressure made by cell sap against the cell wall is called turgor pressure