What is the approximate volume of a typical eukaryotic cell compared to a prokaryotic cell?

• A. Eukaryotic cells are generally 10 to 100 times larger in volume than prokaryotic cells.
• B. Eukaryotic cells are generally 2 to 5 times larger in volume than prokaryotic cells.
• C. Eukaryotic cells are generally smaller in volume than prokaryotic cells.
• D. Eukaryotic cells are generally the same size as prokaryotic cells.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
2. Consider the structural complexity of eukaryotic cells. The presence of organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus contribute to their larger size.
3. Recall typical size ranges: Eukaryotic cells are usually between 10 to 100 micrometers in diameter, whereas prokaryotic cells are typically 0.1 to 5 micrometers.
4. Calculate the volume of a cell using the formula for the volume of a sphere: \( V = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 \), where \( r \) is the radius of the cell. This will help compare the volumes of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
5. Based on the size ranges and volume calculations, conclude that eukaryotic cells are generally 10 to 100 times larger in volume than prokaryotic cells.