What differentiates plant cells from animal cells?

Plant cells are distinguished from animal cells primarily by the presence of chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are specialized organelles that contain chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for capturing light energy used in photosynthesis. This process enables plants to convert light energy into chemical energy, producing glucose and oxygen, which are crucial for their growth and survival.

In contrast, animal cells do not have chloroplasts because they obtain energy through the consumption of food rather than through photosynthesis. The presence of chloroplasts, along with other features such as a rigid cell wall made of cellulose and large central vacuoles, defines the unique functions and structure of plant cells compared to their animal counterparts.