Salient Features of Cell Theory:

The salient features of the cell theory are as under:

1. Composition of living organisms:

All living organisms including plants and animals are composed of cells. Among these some organisms are unicellular (one celled) and some are multicellular (more than one celled.)

2. Basic structural and functional unit:

Cell is the smallest, basic structural and functional unit of all organisms.

3. Formation of new cells:

New cells are formed by the division of pre-existing cells.

4. Hereditary material:

The cell contains the hereditary material which is passed from one generation to another generation.

Difference Between Plant Cell and Animal Cell

Animal Cell vs. Plant Cell Differences

1. Cell Wall:
Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose outside the cell membrane, providing extra support and shape to the cell.	Animal cells do not have a cell wall; instead, they only have a flexible cell membrane that encloses the cell's contents.
2. Chloroplasts:
Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis, enabling plants to make their food using sunlight.	Animal cells do not have chloroplasts; they cannot carry out photosynthesis.
3. Vacuoles:
Plant cells have a large central vacuole that stores water, nutrients, and waste products. It helps maintain the cell's shape and turgidity.	Animal cells may have smaller vacuoles, but they are not as prominent as in plant cells.
4. Shape:
Plant cells are typically rectangular or square in shape, forming a more rigid structure.	Animal cells are usually roundish or irregular in shape, giving them flexibility to adapt to various tissues and organs.
5. Lysosomes:
Plant cells have few or no lysosomes, which are responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris.	Animal cells contain many lysosomes that help with the cell's waste disposal and recycling processes.