Multiple Choice
In most prokaryotes, how is chromosomal DNA primarily packaged within the cell?
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7. DNA and Chromosome Structure
Bacterial and Viral Chromosome Structure
Multiple Choice
In a prokaryotic cell, where is the cell's chromosomal DNA primarily located?
A
Packaged into linear chromosomes within a membrane-bound endoplasmic reticulum
B
In the nucleoid region of the cytoplasm (not enclosed by a membrane-bound nucleus)
C
Inside a membrane-bound nucleus surrounded by a nuclear envelope
D
Attached to the inner membrane of the mitochondrion
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the basic cellular structure of prokaryotic cells: Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles such as a nucleus or mitochondria.
Recall that in prokaryotic cells, the chromosomal DNA is not enclosed within a membrane-bound nucleus but is instead found in a specific region of the cytoplasm.
Identify this region as the nucleoid, which is an irregularly-shaped area within the cytoplasm where the DNA is concentrated.
Note that the DNA in prokaryotes is typically a single, circular chromosome, not linear chromosomes packaged within an endoplasmic reticulum (which prokaryotes do not have).
Conclude that the chromosomal DNA in prokaryotic cells is primarily located in the nucleoid region of the cytoplasm, which is not enclosed by a membrane.
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