A single-celled organism that lacks a membrane-bound nucleus, mitochondria, or any other membrane-bound organelle,” A. Prokaryote B. Eukaryote C. Nucleus D. Animal Cell
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Prokaryote.
A prokaryote is a single-celled organism that does not have a membrane-bound nucleus, mitochondria, or any other membrane-bound organelles. These organisms are generally simpler and smaller in comparison to eukaryotes. Prokaryotes belong to two main domains: Bacteria and Archaea.
Explanation:
- Prokaryotes are distinguished by their simple cell structure. They have a single, circular DNA molecule located in the nucleoid region, which is not enclosed by a membrane. This sets them apart from eukaryotic cells, which have a defined nucleus that houses the cell’s genetic material inside a nuclear membrane.
- Prokaryotic cells lack mitochondria, chloroplasts, and other membrane-bound organelles that are found in eukaryotic cells. Instead, they have a simpler cellular organization with structures like ribosomes, a plasma membrane, and a cell wall. The absence of membrane-bound organelles means prokaryotes are generally less compartmentalized than eukaryotic cells.
- Eukaryotes, on the other hand, have a more complex structure, with a membrane-bound nucleus containing their genetic material. They also have other membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell), the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and more.
- Nucleus refers specifically to the organelle that holds a eukaryotic cell’s genetic material. It does not apply to prokaryotes, as they lack a true nucleus.
- Animal cells are a type of eukaryotic cell, meaning they contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, distinguishing them from prokaryotes.
In summary, the defining characteristic of prokaryotes is their lack of a membrane-bound nucleus and organelles, which is why they are simpler organisms compared to eukaryotes.
