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.
1 answer