The primary function of a vacuole is to store various substances necessary for a cell’s maintenance and function. In plant cells, for example, vacuoles are large and play a crucial role in maintaining turgor pressure, which helps keep the plant rigid and standing upright. They also store nutrients, waste products, and other materials that the cell may need to break down or transport.
In addition to storage, vacuoles are involved in cellular processes such as detoxification and homeostasis. They can also contribute to cell growth by absorbing water and expanding, which allows the cell to increase in size without needing additional cytoplasm. In summary, vacuoles are essential for storage, maintaining structure, and facilitating cellular processes.