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Multiple Choice
What is a key structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A
Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are multicellular.
B
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, while eukaryotic cells do not.
C
Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
D
Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic definitions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and have a defined nucleus.
Identify the presence of membrane-bound organelles as a key structural feature. Eukaryotic cells contain organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, which are enclosed by membranes.
Recognize that prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles. Their cellular components are not compartmentalized by membranes, which is a significant structural difference.
Consider the implications of these differences. The presence of membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells allows for compartmentalization of cellular processes, which is not possible in prokaryotic cells.
Conclude that the key structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is the presence of membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells, which prokaryotic cells lack.