What is a key difference between plant and animal cells related to energy production?

The production of energy in plant and animal cells primarily involves different organelles, which is why the presence of chloroplasts in plant cells is a key distinguishing factor. Chloroplasts are specialized structures that convert light energy into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. This process allows plants to produce their own food by converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, utilizing sunlight as the energy source.

In contrast, animal cells do not have chloroplasts and must obtain energy by consuming organic matter, relying primarily on mitochondria for cellular respiration. Mitochondria are present in both plant and animal cells, which means energy production occurs in both through different processes. However, the unique ability of plant cells to harness solar energy through chloroplasts sets them apart and is essential for their role in energy production within ecosystems.

The other options do not address the primary distinction in energy production between these two types of cells. While animal cells lack cell walls—which are present in plant cells—it is not directly related to energy production. Similarly, while plant cells may have a larger nucleus, this difference does not pertain specifically to how energy is produced.