OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

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Study for the OCR GCSE Biology Exam. Use multiple choice questions and quiz flashcards with explanations and hints. Excel in your exams!

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What is the main function of the cell wall in plant cells?

To provide energy through photosynthesis
To prevent water loss
To offer support and structure
To assist in cell division

The correct answer is: To offer support and structure

The cell wall in plant cells primarily serves to offer support and structure. It is composed mainly of cellulose, a carbohydrate that provides rigidity and strength. This structural component enables plants to maintain their shape and stand upright, especially important for photosynthetic activity as it allows leaves to maximize exposure to sunlight. Additionally, the cell wall helps protect the cell from physical damage and pathogens. While the cell wall plays a role in regulating water movement and thus can indirectly contribute to preventing water loss, its primary role is to maintain cell integrity and provide the necessary support for the plant. The functions related to energy provision, such as photosynthesis, occur within chloroplasts, and cell division is facilitated by other cellular components, rather than the cell wall itself.