What is a characteristic of the primary cell wall in plants?

The primary cell wall in plants is characterized by being flexible and relatively thin. This allows the cell to grow and expand as it matures, which is essential for plant development. The composition of the primary cell wall, primarily made up of cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, contributes to its flexibility, enabling the plant cells to maintain integrity while accommodating growth or changes in turgor pressure.

In contrast, the secondary cell wall, which develops after the primary wall and is often found in mature cells, is typically rigid and thick, providing structural support to the plant. Lignin, a complex organic polymer, is usually found in the secondary cell walls of certain plant cells, contributing to their strength and rigidity, but it is not a characteristic feature of the primary cell wall. Additionally, while it is true that primary walls can be less prominent in mature cells, they are not completely absent; rather, they may be augmented by a secondary wall.