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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly compares prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A
Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus.
B
Prokaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles, but eukaryotic cells do not.
C
Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells contain mitochondria.
D
Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are always multicellular.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus. This is a fundamental distinction between the two cell types.
Step 2: Analyze the statement 'Prokaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles, but eukaryotic cells do not.' This is incorrect because prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells do (e.g., mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum).
Step 3: Evaluate the 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; instead, they perform energy production processes on their plasma membrane.
Step 4: Assess the statement 'Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are always multicellular.' This is incorrect because prokaryotic cells are typically unicellular (e.g., bacteria), while eukaryotic cells can be either unicellular (e.g., protists) or multicellular (e.g., plants and animals).
Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is 'Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus,' as it accurately reflects the primary distinction between these two cell types.