CBSE Class 9 Answered

The shape of the cell is determined by the specific function of the cell. The cell shape may be variable, as in amoeba and WBCs or fixed, as in most cases. The cell membrane maintains the shape in unicelular organisms. In multicellular organisms, the cell shape is dependent on the function that the cell carries out. It also dsepends on the surface tension, viscosity of the protoplasm and rigidity of the cell membrane. The pressure exerted by the adjoining cells is also important. The cytoskeleton such as the microtubules also help to keep the cell in shape.