Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the distinguishing feature of prokaryotic cells?
A
Complex cytoskeleton
B
Presence of mitochondria
C
Large size compared to eukaryotic cells
D
Lack of a membrane-bound nucleus
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of prokaryotic cells: Prokaryotic cells are simple, single-celled organisms that lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
Compare prokaryotic cells to eukaryotic cells: Eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane and contain various membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria.
Identify the key distinguishing feature: The absence of a membrane-bound nucleus is the primary characteristic that differentiates prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells.
Evaluate the options given: A complex cytoskeleton and the presence of mitochondria are features of eukaryotic cells, not prokaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.
Conclude with the correct distinguishing feature: The lack of a membrane-bound nucleus is the correct distinguishing feature of prokaryotic cells.