Which of the following statements about vacuoles is correct?a)Vacuoles...
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Vacuoles are only found in plant cells and not in animal cells.
This statement is incorrect. Vacuoles are found in both plant and animal cells, although they are more prominent and have a larger central vacuole in plant cells.
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The central vacuole in some plant cells can occupy 50-90% of the cell volume.
This statement is correct. In plant cells, the central vacuole can be very large, occupying a significant portion of the cell's volume, ranging from 50-90%.
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Plant cells generally have smaller vacuoles than animal cells.
This statement is incorrect. Plant cells typically have a very large central vacuole, whereas animal cells have smaller vacuoles.
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Vacuoles are large and centrally located in animal cells.
This statement is incorrect. In animal cells, vacuoles are typically small and scattered throughout the cytoplasm. It is in plant cells that a large, central vacuole is commonly found.
Correct Answer: The central vacuole in some plant cells can occupy 50-90% of the cell volume.
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Which of the following statements about vacuoles is correct?a)Vacuoles...
Understanding Vacuoles
Vacuoles are essential cellular structures found in many types of cells, including plant and animal cells. They serve various functions, most notably in storage and maintaining cell structure.
Why Option B is Correct
- The central vacuole, particularly in plant cells, is a large membrane-bound organelle that plays a crucial role in maintaining turgor pressure.
- In some plant cells, this central vacuole can indeed occupy 50-90% of the cell volume, which is vital for:
- Water storage: Helps in maintaining hydration.
- Nutrient storage: Stores essential substances for the plant.
- Waste management: Sequesters waste products.
- This significant volume helps the plant cells maintain their shape and structural integrity, aiding in overall plant health.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect
- Option A: Vacuoles are present in both plant and animal cells, although they are generally larger and more prominent in plant cells.
- Option C: Plant cells typically have larger vacuoles compared to animal cells, which often contain smaller vacuoles used for various functions.
- Option D: In animal cells, vacuoles are usually smaller and more numerous, not large and centrally located like in plant cells.
Conclusion
Understanding the role of the central vacuole in plant cells highlights its importance in cellular function and overall plant vitality. Option B accurately reflects this crucial aspect of plant cell biology.