What is cellulose primarily used for in plants?

What is cellulose primarily used for in plants?

• A. Energy storage
• B. Protection against herbivores
• C. Water retention
• D. Structural support

Answer: (D)

Cellulose is primarily used for structural support in plants. It is a complex carbohydrate that forms the cell wall of plant cells, providing rigidity and strength. The long chains of glucose molecules in cellulose are arranged in a way that allows them to form robust fibers, which contribute to the overall integrity of the plant structure. This support is crucial for maintaining the plant's upright position, helping it reach sunlight for photosynthesis and allowing it to withstand various environmental stresses. The cell wall, composed largely of cellulose, plays a vital role in helping plants manage turgor pressure, which is the pressure of the cell contents against the cell wall. This pressure helps plants maintain their shape and prevents wilting. In addition, the strength provided by cellulose aids in protecting the plant against physical damage and contributes to its ability to grow tall without collapsing under its own weight. Overall, cellulose is essential for the structural framework that allows plants to thrive in their environments.

Cellulose is primarily used for structural support in plants. It is a complex carbohydrate that forms the cell wall of plant cells, providing rigidity and strength. The long chains of glucose molecules in cellulose are arranged in a way that allows them to form robust fibers, which contribute to the overall integrity of the plant structure. This support is crucial for maintaining the plant's upright position, helping it reach sunlight for photosynthesis and allowing it to withstand various environmental stresses.

The cell wall, composed largely of cellulose, plays a vital role in helping plants manage turgor pressure, which is the pressure of the cell contents against the cell wall. This pressure helps plants maintain their shape and prevents wilting. In addition, the strength provided by cellulose aids in protecting the plant against physical damage and contributes to its ability to grow tall without collapsing under its own weight. Overall, cellulose is essential for the structural framework that allows plants to thrive in their environments.