Which structure provides rigid support to plant cells and surrounds the cell membrane?

Which structure provides rigid support to plant cells and surrounds the cell membrane?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Cytoplasm
• C. Mitochondrion
• D. Cell wall

Answer: (D)

The cell wall provides rigid support by forming a tough external layer around the cell membrane, made largely of cellulose in plants. This sturdy boundary gives the cell its shape, helps resist osmotic pressure, and protects the internal contents. Since the cell membrane sits inside this wall, the wall effectively surrounds it. The nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondrion each have important roles inside the cell but do not surround the cell membrane or provide that external, rigid support.

The cell wall provides rigid support by forming a tough external layer around the cell membrane, made largely of cellulose in plants. This sturdy boundary gives the cell its shape, helps resist osmotic pressure, and protects the internal contents. Since the cell membrane sits inside this wall, the wall effectively surrounds it. The nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondrion each have important roles inside the cell but do not surround the cell membrane or provide that external, rigid support.