Which structure provides support to plant cells and prevents them from bursting?

The cell wall is a rigid structure found outside the cell membrane in plant cells. It is primarily made of cellulose and serves multiple critical roles, one of which is to provide structural support. This rigidity helps maintain the overall shape of the plant cells and prevents them from bursting when they are turgid, which occurs due to water uptake. The cell wall acts as a protective barrier, allowing the cell to maintain internal pressure without risking damage or lysis, especially in hypotonic environments where water would naturally flow into the cell. This function is essential for the overall health and stability of plants as it enables them to grow upright and resist various environmental stresses.

The other structures mentioned do not serve this specific function. The cell membrane is flexible and helps regulate what enters and exits the cell but does not provide the same level of structural support as the cell wall. Chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis and do not play a role in structural integrity. The cytoplasm is a gel-like substance within the cell that houses organelles, but it does not contribute to the mechanical support needed to prevent bursting. Thus, the cell wall is crucial for maintaining the integrity and durability of plant cells.