Admission Test for Dental Hygiene (ATDH) Practice

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What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

Photosynthesis
Energy production
Storage and water regulation
Cellular signaling

The correct answer is: Storage and water regulation

The main function of vacuoles in plant cells is storage and water regulation. Vacuoles are large, membrane-bound organelles that serve various roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis. They primarily store essential substances such as nutrients, ions, and waste products. This storage capacity helps ensure that the plant cell has a readily available supply of these materials as needed. Additionally, vacuoles play a critical role in regulating water balance within the cell. By controlling the amount of water they hold, vacuoles help maintain turgor pressure, which is vital for the structural integrity of plant cells. This pressure helps keep the plant rigid and upright. When a plant cell takes in water, the vacuole can expand, pushing against the cell wall and providing the necessary support. Overall, vacuoles are fundamental for both the storage of key substances and the regulation of water, making them essential for the functions and health of plant cells.