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cell wall
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Labeled diagram of a bacillus-shaped bacterial cell showing capsule, cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nuclear matter, pili, and a single long flagellum extending from one end. Labeled diagram of a bacterial cell showing key structures including capsule, cell wall, plasma membrane, cytoplasm, chromosome, plasmid, ribosomes, mesosome, pili, and long flagella.
Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic Cells: Key Differences Explained
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cell wall

cellular structure
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Labeled diagram of a bacillus-shaped bacterial cell showing capsule, cell wall, cell membrane, cytoplasm, nuclear matter, pili, and a single long flagellum extending from one end.
Bacillus-type bacterial cell Schematic drawing of the structure of a typical bacterial cell of the bacillus type.

The cell wall is a rigid, nonliving layer that surrounds the plasma membrane of plant, bacterial, fungal, and algal cells. It provides mechanical protection and a buffered environment for the cell. The plant cell wall, composed of cellulose fibers embedded in a matrix of polysaccharides and glycoproteins, is crucial for plant life. It offers structural support, allowing for the formation of complex plant structures like leaves and stems.123

The cell wall also facilitates the circulation of water and nutrients. Its mechanical properties are influenced by turgor pressure, the pressure exerted by the fluid within the cell against the cell wall, which keeps plant tissues rigid. When turgor pressure is lost due to water loss, plants wilt.24

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6 Britannica Sources
  1. cell wall
  2. cell - Mechanical properties of wall layers
  3. cell - Components of the cell wall
  4. cell wall
  5. turgor
  6. osmotic pressure

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