Which of the following is a key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

• A. Eukaryotic cells have circular DNA, while prokaryotic cells have linear DNA.
• B. Prokaryotic cells are generally larger than eukaryotic cells.
• C. Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
• D. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are generally simpler and lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have complex structures with membrane-bound organelles.
2. Understand the organization of genetic material in both cell types. Prokaryotic cells typically have a single, circular DNA molecule located in the nucleoid region, whereas eukaryotic cells have linear DNA organized into chromosomes within a nucleus.
3. Consider the size comparison between the two cell types. Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, which allows for faster reproduction and simpler cellular processes.
4. Examine the presence of a nucleus. Eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus that houses their genetic material, while prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus; their DNA is located in the cytoplasm.
5. Evaluate the presence of membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells contain organelles such as the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, which are enclosed by membranes, whereas prokaryotic cells lack these structures.