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Multiple Choice
What is the main structural difference between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells?
A
Prokaryotic cells have mitochondria, while eukaryotic cells do not.
B
Prokaryotic cells are larger than eukaryotic cells.
C
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, while eukaryotic cells do not.
D
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a nucleus.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic definitions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and do not have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and contain membrane-bound organelles.
Identify the key structural components of prokaryotic cells. They lack a nucleus and instead have a nucleoid region where their genetic material is located. They also lack other organelles such as mitochondria.
Identify the key structural components of eukaryotic cells. They have a defined nucleus where the genetic material is enclosed within a nuclear membrane. Eukaryotic cells also contain other organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.
Compare the presence of a nucleus in both cell types. The main structural difference is that prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, whereas eukaryotic cells have a nucleus.
Conclude by summarizing that the presence or absence of a nucleus is the primary structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, which affects their complexity and function.