Why is cellulose important for plant cells?

Cellulose plays a crucial role in providing structure and support to plant cells. It is a complex carbohydrate that forms the cell wall, which is essential for maintaining the shape and integrity of the plant. The rigid structure of cellulose gives strength to the plant, allowing it to withstand various environmental stresses such as wind, water pressure, and gravity. This rigidity helps plants stand upright and reach towards sunlight, which is vital for photosynthesis. Additionally, the strong cell walls formed by cellulose allow plants to grow tall and compete for light, which is essential for their survival and growth. Thus, the primary importance of cellulose lies in its structural role within plant cells.