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Multiple Choice
What is a major structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, while eukaryotic cells do not.
B
Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are multicellular.
C
Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
D
Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the key structural components of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are generally simpler and lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have complex structures with membrane-bound organelles.
Understand the role of membrane-bound organelles. These organelles, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum, are enclosed by membranes and are found in eukaryotic cells, allowing compartmentalization of cellular functions.
Recognize that prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus. Instead, their genetic material is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane.
Note that eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus, which is a defining feature. The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell's genetic material.
Conclude that the major structural difference is the presence of membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells, which are absent in prokaryotic cells. This distinction is crucial for understanding the complexity and functionality of eukaryotic cells compared to prokaryotic cells.