Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

Which structure is found in plant cells but not in animal cells?

1. Mitochondria

2. Chloroplast

3. Nucleus

4. Ribosomes

The correct answer is: Chloroplast

Chloroplasts are specialized organelles found in plant cells that play a crucial role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This organelle contains the green pigment chlorophyll, which captures light energy. The presence of chloroplasts is a defining characteristic of plant cells, allowing them to harness solar energy and produce their own food, unlike animal cells, which obtain energy by consuming organic material and do not have the ability to perform photosynthesis. In contrast, mitochondria, nucleus, and ribosomes are common to both plant and animal cells. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, providing energy through cellular respiration, while the nucleus houses genetic material and controls various cellular functions. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, a fundamental process in all living cells. Therefore, the unique presence of chloroplasts in plant cells sets them apart from animal cells.