What are some of the key differences between animal and plant cells?

Possibly the most noticeable difference between plant and animal cells is the presence of chloroplasts containing chlorophyll in the plant cells. This chlorophyll is used in photosynthesis, to convert sunlight into energy. Animal cells do not photosynthesise, so they do not have an chloroplasts or chlorophyll.Other notable differences include plant cells having a cell wall as well as a cell membrane. This additional cell wall gives the plant cell more structure and rigidity. Animal cells only have a cell membrane. Plant cells also often have large vacuoles for storing nutrients. Some animal cells will have vacuoles too, but these are much smaller.

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