In plant tissue, what primary function does the cell wall serve for a plant cell?

• A. Stores and transmits genetic information as chromosomes
• B. Carries out selective transport of ions and nutrients using membrane protein channels
• C. Provides structural support and protection, helping maintain cell shape and resist osmotic swelling
• D. Generates ATP through oxidative phosphorylation

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the main components of a plant cell and their functions to understand the role of the cell wall.
2. Recall that the cell wall is a rigid layer outside the plasma membrane, primarily composed of cellulose in plants.
3. Understand that the cell wall provides structural support, maintaining the shape of the plant cell and protecting it from mechanical stress.
4. Recognize that the cell wall also helps resist osmotic swelling by preventing excessive water intake, which is crucial for plant cell stability.
5. Compare the functions listed in the problem to confirm that the cell wall's primary role is structural support and protection, not genetic information storage, selective transport, or ATP generation.