Difference between Cell Wall and Cell Membrane

the main difference between cell wall and cell membrane is that cell wall present only in plant cells and composed of cellulose which provides structural strength to the plant cell while cell membrane present in all types of cells. the function of the cell membrane is to protect protoplasm. it is a semi-permeable membrane.

Cell Wall Vs. Cell Membrane

Cell Wall:

the cell wall only presents in plants, bacteria, and fungi which covers the outermost area of the plant cell. it is located outside the cell membrane hard, rigid in its texture, and flexible in structure. it is composed of long fibers of carbohydrates and cellulose which also includes pectin, lignin, and hemicellulose. 

there are several functions of cell wall such as:

• to determine the growth, development, and morphology of plant cells.
• it protects the cell and protoplasm from the invasion by viral, fungal, and bacterial pathogens and physical damages.
•  the cell wall controls the direction of cell growth and also regulates it.
• it is a storage unit that stores carbohydrates that use for the growth of plants especially seeds.
• withstand the turgor pressure develops under the cell wall due to high osmotic pressure. 
• they are very rigid in a structure that helps plants against gravitational forces. 
• helps to transport different materials inside and outside of the cell.
• freely allows small molecules to enter through.

Cell Membrane:

cell membrane or plasma membrane (Phospholipid bilayer) is a biological membrane and covers the outermost of animal cells. it is a semi-permeable membrane made with proteins and lipids heads face the watery outside and inside of the plant cell. it separates the interior of all cells from the outside environment and also provides protection to cells from the environment.

like cell wall, there are several functions of cell membrane such as:

• it protects the upstandingness of the plant cell. 
• cell membrane act like a selectively permeable membrane which only allows entering selective products that benefit cell. 
• It is a site of various chemical reactions. 
• provides full support to protect and maintain the shape of the cell. 
• the cell membrane allows mobility in some organisms.
• Helps to regulate and growth of the cell by a proper and balanced balance of endocytosis and exocytosis.
• Plays a very important role in signaling and communication.
• provides recognition of other external substances