A cell wall is a structural layer that surrounds several types of cells immediately outside the cell membrane.
It can be harsh, flexible, and rigid at times.
It gives structural support and protection to the cell, as well as acts as a filtering mechanism.
Types of cell walls in plants:
Primary cell wall:
The primary cell is a cellulose-containing layer.
The layer is laid down by cells that are growing and dividing.
Secondary cell wall:
A secondary cell wall is a structure that is found in many plants between the plasma membrane and the primary cell wall.
Secondary walls are formed in specialized cells such as tracheary elements and fibres, and their exceptional strength and rigidity give significant mechanical support to the cells and the plant body.
Secondary walls are mostly composed of cellulose, xylan, glucomannan, and lignin.