JAMB UTMEBiologyCell Biology2023

Animal cells lack which of these found in plant cells?

ANucleus
BCell wallCORRECT
CCytoplasm
DMitochondrion
AI
Toaster Teacher
Why the answer is B, and why the others tempt you.
**The reasoning** Think of the cell wall as a **rigid protective box** made of cellulose that surrounds plant cells, giving them their fixed, rectangular shape. It's what makes plants stand upright and provides structural support. Animal cells don't have this rigid wall — they only have a flexible **cell membrane** (which both plant and animal cells possess). This is why animal cells are more rounded and can change shape, while plant cells look boxy under a microscope. The principle: **Structural differences reflect function**. Plants need rigidity to stand tall; animals need flexibility to move. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **A (Nucleus)** and **C (Cytoplasm)** and **D (Mitochondrion)** — These are in BOTH plant and animal cells. The nucleus controls the cell, cytoplasm is the jelly-like filling, and mitochondria produce energy. Don't confuse "animal cells lack" with "both cells have." The trap: assuming animal cells are somehow "less equipped" when they actually share most organelles with plants. **Quick takeaway** Remember: **Cell WALL = Plants ONLY** (for structure); the flexible cell membrane is what animals use instead, allowing them to move freely.
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