Question 1: Explain why plant cells have a rigid cell wall whereas animal cells do not.

Answer: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose to provide structural support and maintain shape, which animal cells lack.

Question 2: Describe the main function of the chloroplast in plant cells.

Answer: Chloroplasts carry out photosynthesis by converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Question 3: What is the role of the vacuole in a plant cell?

Answer: The vacuole stores water, nutrients, and waste products, helping maintain turgor pressure and supporting cell structure.

Question 4: Calculate the surface area to volume ratio of a cubic plant cell measuring 20 micrometres on each side. Use the formula: Surface Area = 6 × side², Volume = side³. Provide your answer in micrometres⁻¹.

Answer: Surface Area / Volume = (6 × 20²) / (20³) = (6 × 400) / 8000 = 2400 / 8000 = 0.3 micrometres⁻¹

Question 5: Which of the following organelles is responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells?

Answer: Chloroplast

Question 6: Fill in the blank: The __ is a large, fluid-filled organelle that helps maintain cell rigidity and stores nutrients and waste products.

Answer: vacuole

Question 7: State two differences between plant and animal cells.

Answer: Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts, whereas animal cells do not.

Question 8: Describe the process by which chloroplasts enable photosynthesis in plant cells.

Answer: Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy. This energy is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, providing energy for the plant.

Question 9: Identify a safety precaution that should be considered when working with plant cell samples in a laboratory setting.

Answer: Ensure all equipment is sterilised to prevent contamination and wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and goggles.

Question 10: Explain how the structure of the plant cell wall contributes to the plant's ability to stand upright.

Answer: The rigid cellulose fibres in the cell wall provide structural support and strength, helping the plant maintain its shape and stand upright.

Question 11: In terms of energy production, compare the roles of mitochondria and chloroplasts in plant cells.

Answer: Mitochondria produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration, which occurs in all eukaryotic cells, including plants. Chloroplasts, on the other hand, capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy via photosynthesis, specific to plant cells and some algae.