Which of the following features do prokaryotes and eukaryotes have in common?

• A. Mitochondria, cytoplasm, and plasma membrane
• B. Nucleus, plasma membrane, and ribosomes
• C. Mitochondria, ribosomes, and cytoplasm
• D. Ribosomes, nucleus, and plasma membrane
• E. Ribosomes, plasma membrane, and cytoplasm

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the basic structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotes are simpler and lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have complex structures including a nucleus and other organelles.
2. Identify the features listed in the options that are common to both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotes and eukaryotes both have ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis.
3. Consider the presence of a plasma membrane in both cell types. The plasma membrane is a fundamental component that surrounds the cell, providing a barrier and regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
4. Recognize that cytoplasm is present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. It is the gel-like substance within the cell membrane where cellular processes occur.
5. Eliminate options that include organelles exclusive to eukaryotes, such as mitochondria and nucleus, as these are not found in prokaryotic cells. This leaves the correct answer as ribosomes, plasma membrane, and cytoplasm.