What is the main function of a vacuole in plant cells?

The main function of a vacuole in plant cells is storage. Vacuoles serve as large, membrane-bound sacs within the cell that can hold various substances. In plant cells, they often store water, nutrients, and waste products. This storage function is crucial for maintaining turgor pressure, which helps keep the plant rigid and upright.

A vacuole can also store pigments and other molecules that play important roles in a plant's water and nutrient balance. While photosynthesis, protein synthesis, and cell division are essential functions in the life of a plant, they are not performed by the vacuole. Photosynthesis primarily occurs in chloroplasts, protein synthesis takes place in ribosomes, and cell division involves various structures like the nucleus and spindle fibers. Understanding the specific role of the vacuole highlights its importance in plant cell function and overall health.