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Multiple Choice
Which statement best differentiates between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells?
A
Eukaryotic cells do not contain any genetic material, whereas prokaryotic cells do.
B
Prokaryotic cells are always multicellular, while eukaryotic cells are always unicellular.
C
Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus.
D
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain mitochondria.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler in structure and lack membrane-bound organelles, including a nucleus. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, are more complex and contain membrane-bound organelles, including a nucleus.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Eukaryotic cells do not contain any genetic material, whereas prokaryotic cells do.' This is incorrect because both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain genetic material. Prokaryotic cells have their genetic material in a nucleoid region, while eukaryotic cells store theirs in a membrane-bound nucleus.
Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'Prokaryotic cells are always multicellular, while eukaryotic cells are always unicellular.' This is also incorrect. Prokaryotic cells are typically unicellular, while eukaryotic cells can be either unicellular or multicellular.
Step 4: Examine the third statement: 'Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus.' This is correct and highlights the fundamental difference between the two cell types.
Step 5: Review the fourth statement: 'Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain mitochondria.' This is incorrect because mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found only in eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells do not have mitochondria.