Lignin is an extremely large organic polymer, which forms part of the cell walls of plant cells, along with cellulose.
Lignin contains Hydrogen, Oxygen and Carbon atoms, as does cellulose, but it is differently shaped, having many cross-links in its structure, making it more like wire-netting than a long chain.
This means it is particularly good for strengthening and support functions, and lignin is found in the xylem cells: the presence of large amounts of lignin is what makes wood "woody"!
Anne Evans
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