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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly compares eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
A
Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, but eukaryotic cells do not.
B
Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are always multicellular.
C
Both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have mitochondria.
D
Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the key differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are characterized by the presence of membrane-bound organelles, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum. Prokaryotic cells, on the other hand, lack these membrane-bound organelles.
Step 2: Analyze the first statement: 'Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, but eukaryotic cells do not.' This is incorrect because prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus. Instead, their genetic material is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not membrane-bound. Eukaryotic cells, however, do have a nucleus.
Step 3: Evaluate the second statement: 'Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are always multicellular.' This is also incorrect. Eukaryotic cells can be found in both unicellular organisms (e.g., protists) and multicellular organisms (e.g., plants and animals). Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria and archaea, are always unicellular.
Step 4: Assess the third statement: 'Both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have 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 like cellular respiration on their plasma membrane.
Step 5: Confirm the correct statement: 'Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.' This is accurate and aligns with the fundamental distinction between these two cell types. Eukaryotic cells have organelles like the nucleus and mitochondria, while prokaryotic cells lack these structures.