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Multiple Choice
Which of the following structures is found in eukaryotic cells but not in prokaryotic cells?
A
Cell wall
B
Nucleus
C
Ribosomes
D
Plasma membrane
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells: Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
Review the structures listed in the question: Cell wall, Nucleus, Ribosomes, and Plasma membrane.
Analyze each structure: Cell walls are found in both prokaryotic (e.g., bacteria) and some eukaryotic cells (e.g., plants and fungi). Ribosomes are present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, but their size and structure differ slightly. Plasma membranes are also present in both cell types as they are essential for maintaining the cell's boundary and regulating transport.
Focus on the nucleus: The nucleus is a membrane-bound organelle that houses the genetic material (DNA) in eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus; instead, their DNA is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not membrane-bound.
Conclude that the nucleus is the structure found in eukaryotic cells but not in prokaryotic cells, as it is the defining feature of eukaryotes.