Question

What distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?

Ability to reproduce
Presence of DNA
Presence of ribosomes
Presence of membrane-bound organelles

Answer 1

The primary distinction between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells is the **presence of membrane-bound organelles**. Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria and archaea, lack membrane-bound organelles and do not have a defined nucleus. Their genetic material (DNA) is not enclosed in a membrane.

In contrast, eukaryotic cells, which include plant, animal, fungal, and protist cells, have a defined nucleus that houses their DNA and various membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.

Here's a brief summary of the characteristics you listed:

- **Ability to reproduce:** Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells can reproduce, so this is not a distinguishing feature.
- **Presence of DNA:** Both types of cells have DNA, although it is organized differently (circular in prokaryotes and linear in eukaryotes).
- **Presence of ribosomes:** Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have ribosomes, but they differ in size and structure.
- **Presence of membrane-bound organelles:** This is the key distinguishing feature; eukaryotic cells have them, while prokaryotic cells do not.

Therefore, the correct distinguishing feature is the **presence of membrane-bound organelles**.