Multiple Choice
In prokaryotes, most chromosomal DNA molecules are located in the:
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7. DNA and Chromosome Structure
Bacterial and Viral Chromosome Structure
Multiple Choice
In prokaryotic cells, where is the cell's chromosomal DNA primarily located?
A
In chloroplasts as circular DNA organized into thylakoids.
B
In mitochondria as multiple linear chromosomes.
C
In the nucleoid region of the cytoplasm (not membrane-bound).
D
Inside a membrane-bound nucleus surrounded by a nuclear envelope.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of prokaryotic cells: Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles such as a nucleus, mitochondria, or chloroplasts.
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 where the cell's circular chromosomal DNA is concentrated.
Note that unlike eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic DNA is typically a single circular chromosome rather than multiple linear chromosomes.
Conclude that the chromosomal DNA in prokaryotic cells is primarily located in the nucleoid region of the cytoplasm, which is not membrane-bound.
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