Which best describes a difference between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells? A. Prokaryotic cells are much larger than eukaryotic cells. B. Eukaryotic cells contain organelles that are enclosed in membranes. C. Eukaryotic cells are much simpler than prokaryotic cells. D. Prokaryotic cells contain a nucleus that is enclosed in a membrane.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is B. Eukaryotic cells contain organelles that are enclosed in membranes.
Explanation:
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells represent the two main categories of cells that form the basis of all life. Understanding the key differences between them is important for grasping how various organisms function and evolve.
- Prokaryotic Cells:
Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller in structure. These cells lack membrane-bound organelles, such as a nucleus, mitochondria, or endoplasmic reticulum. Their genetic material, primarily a single circular chromosome, is found in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane. Prokaryotes include bacteria and archaea. Prokaryotic cells also often have a cell wall, plasma membrane, and ribosomes, but these are not enclosed in membranes. - Eukaryotic Cells:
In contrast, eukaryotic cells are more complex and larger in size. The defining feature of eukaryotic cells is that they contain membrane-bound organelles. For instance, the nucleus, which houses the cell’s genetic material, is enclosed by a double membrane (the nuclear envelope). Other membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotes include mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, the Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes. Eukaryotic cells are found in animals, plants, fungi, and protists.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- A. Prokaryotic cells are not larger; they are smaller than eukaryotic cells.
- C. Eukaryotic cells are more complex, not simpler, due to the presence of organelles.
- D. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or any membrane-bound organelles.
In summary, the presence of membrane-bound organelles is a key distinguishing feature of eukaryotic cells, making B the correct answer.