What structure helps maintain the shape of plant cells?

The structure that helps maintain the shape of plant cells is the cell wall. The cell wall is a rigid layer made primarily of cellulose, which provides structural support and protection. This rigidity allows plant cells to maintain their shape even when they are under pressure from internal turgor pressure, which is the pressure from the fluid inside the cell pushing against the cell wall. Unlike animal cells, which only have a flexible cell membrane, plant cells rely on their cell wall to retain their form and resist external pressures.

The cell wall also plays a crucial role in preventing excessive water uptake, thus contributing to the overall integrity and stability of the plant. Other structures, like the cell membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus, serve different functions within the cell but do not specifically provide the rigidity or shape maintenance that the cell wall offers.