Here's why:
* Both plant and animal cells have a cell membrane (also called the plasma membrane). This membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer and acts as a barrier controlling what enters and exits the cell.
* The thickness of the cell membrane is generally the same in both plant and animal cells. The primary function of the cell membrane is to regulate the passage of molecules, and this function is achieved with a relatively thin structure.
What's different?
Plant cells have an additional layer called the cell wall. This rigid structure, made mostly of cellulose, provides support and shape to the plant cell. The cell wall is much thicker than the cell membrane, but it's not part of the cell membrane itself.
Let me know if you have any other questions!