How many additional sub-cellular structures (structures inside the cell) do plant cells have compared to animal cells?

Plant cells have several sub-cellular structures that are not found in animal cells. Here are the key structures that are typically present in plant cells but absent in animal cells:

1. Cell Wall: The plant cell has a rigid cell wall composed mainly of cellulose, providing structural support and protection. Animal cells do not have a cell wall, only a plasma membrane.

2. Chloroplasts: These organelles are responsible for photosynthesis, allowing plants to convert sunlight into energy. Animal cells do not have chloroplasts as they do not perform photosynthesis.

3. Central Vacuole: Plant cells often contain a large central vacuole that holds water, nutrients, and waste products. It helps maintain turgor pressure against the cell wall. While animal cells may have smaller vacuoles, they do not have a central vacuole as large or as prominent as in plant cells.

4. Plasmodesmata: These are channels that allow communication and transport between plant cells. Animal cells do not possess these structures.

Summary

In summary, plant cells typically have four additional sub-cellular structures (cell wall, chloroplasts, central vacuole, and plasmodesmata) compared to animal cells.