The part of a cell that provides structural support and protection is the cell wall. The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. It helps maintain the cell’s shape, prevents it from bursting when water enters, and provides protection against mechanical stress and pathogens.
In plant cells, the cell wall is primarily made up of cellulose, a complex carbohydrate that gives the wall its strength and rigidity. In fungi, the cell wall is composed of chitin, while in bacteria, it is made of peptidoglycan.
The cell wall is crucial for the survival of these organisms, as it not only provides structural support but also plays a role in cell-to-cell communication and the regulation of cell growth.