The function of a cell wall in prokaryotes is:

Explanation

All prokaryotic cells have a stiff cell wall located underneath the capsule (if there is one). This structure maintains the 'cell's shape', protects the cell interior, and prevents the cell from bursting when it takes up water. Since the bacterial cell wall is 'thick and rigid', it will maintain the shape of the cell and also 'protect it from osmotic lysis' just like the cell wall of plants. Hence, the correct option is 'D'.