Plant cells have a cell wall that animal cells lack. This rigid structure made of cellulose provides structural support and prevents the cell from bursting in a hypotonic solution.

Here's why:

* Hypotonic Solution: A hypotonic solution has a lower solute concentration than the inside of the cell. This means water will move into the cell by osmosis, trying to equalize the concentration.

* Animal Cells: Without a cell wall, the influx of water can cause the cell to swell and eventually burst (lyse).

* Plant Cells: The cell wall provides resistance against the pressure created by the water entering the cell. This pressure, called turgor pressure, is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and rigidity.

So, the cell wall is the key difference that allows plant cells to thrive in hypotonic environments, while animal cells would be vulnerable to lysis.