How do the extracellular filaments in plants differ from those in animals? a. Plant filaments resist compression forces; animal filaments resist pulling forces. b. Animal filaments consist of proteins; plant filaments consist of polysaccharides. c. Plant extracellular filaments never move; animal filaments can slide past one another. d. Plant filaments run parallel to one another; animal filaments crisscross.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The question is asking about the differences between the extracellular filaments in plants and animals.
2. Step 2: Recall what you know about extracellular filaments. In both plants and animals, these structures provide support and structure to cells.
3. Step 3: Evaluate each option. Option a suggests that plant filaments resist compression forces while animal filaments resist pulling forces. This is not entirely accurate as both types of filaments can resist both types of forces. Option b suggests that animal filaments consist of proteins while plant filaments consist of polysaccharides. This is true, as animal extracellular filaments are primarily composed of proteins like collagen, while plant extracellular filaments are composed of polysaccharides like cellulose. Option c suggests that plant extracellular filaments never move while animal filaments can slide past one another. This is not entirely accurate as both types of filaments can exhibit movement. Option d suggests that plant filaments run parallel to one another while animal filaments crisscross. This is not entirely accurate as the arrangement of filaments can vary in both plants and animals.
4. Step 4: Choose the best answer. Based on the evaluation, the best answer is option b: Animal filaments consist of proteins; plant filaments consist of polysaccharides.
5. Step 5: Review the answer. Make sure the answer makes sense and that you understand why it is correct. In this case, understanding the composition of extracellular filaments in both plants and animals is key.

Key Concepts

Extracellular Matrix (ECM)

The extracellular matrix is a network of proteins and carbohydrates that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells. In plants, the ECM primarily consists of polysaccharides like cellulose, which provide rigidity and resistance to compression. In contrast, the ECM in animals is composed of various proteins, such as collagen and elastin, which offer flexibility and tensile strength.

Types of Forces

Different types of forces act on cellular structures, including compression and tension. Plant extracellular filaments are adapted to resist compression forces due to their rigid cell walls, while animal filaments are designed to withstand pulling or tensile forces, allowing for greater flexibility and movement. Understanding these forces is crucial for comparing the functions of filaments in both kingdoms.

Filament Structure and Function

The structure of extracellular filaments varies significantly between plants and animals, influencing their function. In plants, filaments are often arranged in parallel to provide strength and stability, while in animals, filaments can be organized in a crisscross pattern, allowing for dynamic movement and flexibility. This structural difference is essential for the respective mechanical properties and roles of these filaments in each organism.