What is the difference between a prokaryotic cell and a eukaryotic cell?

What is the difference between a prokaryotic cell and a eukaryotic cell?

• A. Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus; eukaryotic cells have a nucleus
• B. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus; eukaryotic cells lack a nucleus
• C. Prokaryotic cells are larger than eukaryotic cells
• D. Eukaryotic cells can only reproduce asexually

Answer: (A)

The statement that prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus while eukaryotic cells have a nucleus accurately highlights one of the fundamental distinctions between these two types of cells. Prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, are generally simpler in structure. They do not possess a membrane-bound nucleus; instead, their genetic material is located in a nucleoid region within the cell. This lack of a true nucleus is a defining characteristic of prokaryotes. In contrast, eukaryotic cells—such as those found in animals, plants, fungi, and protists—contain a nucleus encased in a nuclear membrane. This nucleus houses the cell's DNA and plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and cell function. The presence of a nucleus is one of the defining features of eukaryotic cells and is associated with their more complex cellular organization and functions. Understanding this difference is essential for studying cell biology, as it helps clarify how cellular structures relate to their functions and the overall complexity of life forms.

The statement that prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus while eukaryotic cells have a nucleus accurately highlights one of the fundamental distinctions between these two types of cells. Prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, are generally simpler in structure. They do not possess a membrane-bound nucleus; instead, their genetic material is located in a nucleoid region within the cell. This lack of a true nucleus is a defining characteristic of prokaryotes.

In contrast, eukaryotic cells—such as those found in animals, plants, fungi, and protists—contain a nucleus encased in a nuclear membrane. This nucleus houses the cell's DNA and plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and cell function. The presence of a nucleus is one of the defining features of eukaryotic cells and is associated with their more complex cellular organization and functions.

Understanding this difference is essential for studying cell biology, as it helps clarify how cellular structures relate to their functions and the overall complexity of life forms.