Which of the following organelles is found only in animal cells and not in most plant cells?

• A. Cell wall
• B. Central vacuole
• C. Lysosome
• D. Chloroplast

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the function of each organelle listed in the problem. The cell wall is a rigid structure that provides support and protection to plant cells, but it is absent in animal cells.
2. Step 2: Examine the central vacuole. This organelle is large and prominent in plant cells, serving functions such as storage and maintaining cell turgor pressure. It is not typically found in animal cells.
3. Step 3: Consider the chloroplast. Chloroplasts are specialized organelles in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis. They are absent in animal cells.
4. Step 4: Analyze the lysosome. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris. They are commonly found in animal cells but are rare or absent in most plant cells.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the organelle found only in animal cells and not in most plant cells is the lysosome, based on its unique role in intracellular digestion and absence in typical plant cell structures.