What is the primary function of cellulose in plant cells?

Cellulose primarily serves as a structural component in plant cells. It is a polysaccharide made up of long chains of glucose molecules and forms a significant part of the cell wall, providing rigidity and strength. This structural support is crucial for maintaining the shape of the plant cells and helping them withstand external pressures. The presence of cellulose allows plants to grow tall and remain upright, which is essential for accessing sunlight and facilitating photosynthesis.

Other functions such as energy storage, cell signaling, and photosynthesis are not the primary roles associated with cellulose. While plants have other mechanisms and compounds for storing energy (like starch), signaling (which often involves smaller molecules and proteins), and carrying out photosynthesis (mainly occurring in chloroplasts), cellulose's main role is distinctly aligned with providing structural integrity.