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Multiple Choice
What structure do all eukaryotic cells have that prokaryotic cells lack?
A
Nucleus
B
Ribosomes
C
Plasma membrane
D
Cell wall
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the basic differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are complex and have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells are simpler and lack these structures.
Identify the key organelles that are present in eukaryotic cells but absent in prokaryotic cells. The nucleus is a defining feature of eukaryotic cells, where the cell's genetic material is enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
Consider the other options provided: ribosomes, plasma membrane, and cell wall. Ribosomes are present in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, as they are essential for protein synthesis.
Evaluate the plasma membrane and cell wall. Both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have a plasma membrane, which is crucial for maintaining the cell's environment and regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
Understand that while some eukaryotic cells have a cell wall, it is not a universal feature among them, and prokaryotic cells also have cell walls. Therefore, the nucleus is the structure that all eukaryotic cells have and prokaryotic cells lack.