The correct difference between gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes is:
Prokaryotes do not store their genes in a nucleus like eukaryotes do.
This option highlights a fundamental structural difference that contributes to how gene regulation occurs in each type of organism. Prokaryotic DNA is located in the cytoplasm, while eukaryotic DNA is contained within a nucleus, influencing the mechanisms of transcription and translation.
The other statements contain inaccuracies regarding gene regulation processes in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. For instance, prokaryotes can respond to environmental stimuli when transcribing genes, and eukaryotes generally do not use operons as a predominant form of gene organization.