๐Ÿงฌap biology review

Vacuole

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025

Definition

A membrane-bound sac that plays different roles depending on cell type: in plant cells, a large specialized vacuole maintains turgor pressure through nutrient and water storage; in animal cells, smaller and more plentiful vacuoles store cellular materials.

AP course connection

Topic 2.1: 2.1 Cell Structure and Function

Unit 2

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Subjects (1)