Multiple Choice
Which theory explains how eukaryotic cells evolved to include membrane-bound organelles?
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5. Cell Components
Endosymbiotic Theory
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Which of the following is evidence to support the endosymbiotic theory?
A
Mitochondria and chloroplasts have their own DNA similar to bacterial DNA.
B
Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles.
C
Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that contains linear DNA.
D
Eukaryotic cells can perform photosynthesis.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the endosymbiotic theory: It suggests that certain organelles, like mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated as free-living bacteria that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.
Identify key evidence for the endosymbiotic theory: Mitochondria and chloroplasts have their own DNA, which is similar to bacterial DNA, supporting the idea that they were once independent prokaryotic organisms.
Compare the DNA of mitochondria and chloroplasts to bacterial DNA: Both have circular DNA, which is a characteristic of prokaryotic cells, unlike the linear DNA found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.
Consider the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have complex structures, including a nucleus and organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Evaluate the ability of eukaryotic cells to perform photosynthesis: While this is a function of some eukaryotic cells, it is not direct evidence of the endosymbiotic theory. The presence of chloroplasts, which have their own DNA, is the relevant evidence.
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