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

The primary function of the cell wall in plant cells is to prevent bursting by withstanding osmotic pressure. Plant cells typically have a high internal pressure due to the accumulation of solutes, which draws water into the cell through osmosis. The cell wall provides structural support and rigidity, allowing the plant cell to maintain its shape and integrity without bursting under this internal pressure.

The cell wall is primarily composed of cellulose, a carbohydrate that forms a tough and resilient barrier. This structure is crucial for protecting the cell from external environmental stresses and also plays a role in maintaining turgor pressure, which is vital for plant health and growth. Such pressure supports the plant, allowing it to stand upright and capture sunlight effectively for photosynthesis.

Other choices, while having their own respective roles in biology, do not describe the primary function of the cell wall in plant cells. For instance, cell division is governed by the cell membrane and internal structures, nutrient and waste storage typically takes place in vacuoles within the cell, and material transport across the membrane is primarily handled by proteins embedded in the cell membrane rather than the cell wall itself.