What are large sac-like, membrane-enclosed structures that store materials such as water and nutrients?

What are large sac-like, membrane-enclosed structures that store materials such as water and nutrients?

• A. Vacuoles
• B. Lysosomes
• C. Peroxisomes
• D. Golgi apparatus

Answer: (A)

Vacuoles are large sac-like, membrane-bound compartments that store materials such as water and nutrients. In plant cells, a prominent central vacuole holds a large volume of water, helping maintain turgor pressure that keeps the plant rigid and upright. Vacuoles can also store ions, sugars, pigments, and waste products in various cell types. Other organelles have different jobs: lysosomes contain enzymes for breaking down waste and cellular debris; peroxisomes detoxify harmful substances and break down fatty acids; and the Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins and lipids for shipment or delivery within the cell. This storage role and the form—large, membrane-bound sacs—make vacuoles the best fit for storing water and nutrients.

Vacuoles are large sac-like, membrane-bound compartments that store materials such as water and nutrients. In plant cells, a prominent central vacuole holds a large volume of water, helping maintain turgor pressure that keeps the plant rigid and upright. Vacuoles can also store ions, sugars, pigments, and waste products in various cell types. Other organelles have different jobs: lysosomes contain enzymes for breaking down waste and cellular debris; peroxisomes detoxify harmful substances and break down fatty acids; and the Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins and lipids for shipment or delivery within the cell. This storage role and the form—large, membrane-bound sacs—make vacuoles the best fit for storing water and nutrients.