Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells are the two fundamental types of cells that make up all living organisms. They differ in various structural, functional, and genetic aspects.
Prokaryotic Cells:
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Definition: Prokaryotic cells are simpler, unicellular organisms that do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.
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Structure:
- Nucleus: Lacks a true nucleus; genetic material (DNA) is located in a region called the nucleoid.
- Size: Generally smaller in size (typically 0.1 to 5.0 micrometers).
- Cell Wall: Most have a rigid cell wall made of peptidoglycan (in bacteria).
- Organelles: Lacks membrane-bound organelles; has ribosomes, but they are smaller than those in eukaryotic cells.
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Types: The primary domains of prokaryotes are Bacteria and Archaea.
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Reproduction: They reproduce asexually through binary fission.
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Examples: Bacteria, Archaea.
Eukaryotic Cells:
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Definition: Eukaryotic cells are more complex and can be unicellular or multicellular organisms. They contain a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
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Structure:
- Nucleus: Contains the cell’s genetic material enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
- Size: Generally larger in size (typically 10 to 100 micrometers).
- Cell Wall: In plants and fungi, a cell wall is present (cellulose in plants, chitin in fungi), while animal cells do not have cell walls.
- Organelles: Contains various membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes, among others.
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Types: Eukaryotes include animals, plants, fungi, and protists.
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Reproduction: They can reproduce asexually (e.g., mitosis) or sexually (e.g., meiosis).
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Examples: Humans, animals, plants, fungi, and amoebae.
Summary:
In summary, the primary distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells lies in their complexity, with eukaryotes possessing a defined nucleus and organelles, while prokaryotes are generally simpler and lack these structures. These differences have significant implications for the biology and evolution of different life forms.