Cell Wall Functions in Prokaryotic Cells
What are the key functions of the cell wall in prokaryotic cells?
A. Protection, maintaining cell shape, and preventing dehydration
Answer:
The cell wall of prokaryotic cells provides three key functions: protection, maintaining cell shape, and preventing dehydration.
The cell wall is a crucial component of prokaryotic cells, providing essential functions that contribute to the survival of the cell. The three main functions of the cell wall are:
1. Protection:The cell wall acts as a protective barrier, shielding the cell from external threats such as physical damage or invasion by pathogens. By providing an extra layer of defense, the cell wall helps maintain the integrity of the cell.
2. Maintaining Cell Shape:The cell wall gives shape to the cell and provides structural support, preventing the cell from collapsing under osmotic pressure. This structural integrity is crucial for the cell to function properly and maintain its form.
3. Preventing Dehydration:By creating a barrier against changes in the external environment, the cell wall helps regulate the flow of water into and out of the cell. This prevents dehydration and ensures the cell stays hydrated, enabling it to carry out necessary metabolic processes.
In addition to these key functions, many prokaryotic cells may also have additional structures like flagella, pili, or fimbriae that serve specific functions such as locomotion, genetic exchange, or attachment to host cells.