Which structural layer surrounds the algal, fungal and plant cells and provides tensile strength and protection against mechanical and osmotic stress?

Cell wall

The correct answer is Option (3) - Cell wall

The structural layer that surrounds algal, fungal, and plant cells, providing tensile strength and protection against mechanical and osmotic stress, is the Cell Wall.

Cell Wall:

• The cell wall is a rigid outer layer that surrounds the cell membrane of plant cells, fungal cells, and many algal cells.
• It provides structural support and protection to the cell.
• The cell wall is primarily composed of cellulose in plant cells, chitin in fungal cells, and various polysaccharides in algal cells.
• It helps resist osmotic pressure, gives shape to the cell, and provides strength against mechanical stress.