what is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Answer:
The main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells lies in their internal structures and complexity.
Prokaryotic Cells:
-Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller and simpler in structure compared to eukaryotic cells.
-They lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
-The genetic material in prokaryotic cells is present in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a nuclear membrane.
-Prokaryotic cells are predominantly found in bacteria and archaea.
Eukaryotic Cells:
-Eukaryotic cells are more complex and larger in size compared to prokaryotic cells.
-They have a true nucleus that houses the genetic material, which is surrounded by a nuclear membrane.
-Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, etc.
-Eukaryotic cells are found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.
In summary, the key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is the presence of membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus in eukaryotic cells, which are lacking in prokaryotic cells.