What distinguishes a eukaryotic cell from a prokaryotic cell?

• A. Lack of a cell membrane
• B. Presence of a nucleus
• C. Smaller ribosomes
• D. Circular DNA

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the basic definitions of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are complex cells that contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells are simpler and lack a nucleus.
2. Identify the key structural differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus where the cell's genetic material is enclosed, whereas prokaryotic cells have genetic material that is not enclosed in a nucleus.
3. Consider the presence of organelles. Eukaryotic cells contain various organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, which are absent in prokaryotic cells.
4. Examine the differences in ribosomes. Eukaryotic cells have larger ribosomes (80S) compared to the smaller ribosomes (70S) found in prokaryotic cells.
5. Look at the DNA structure. Eukaryotic cells typically have linear DNA organized into chromosomes within the nucleus, while prokaryotic cells have circular DNA located in the nucleoid region.