Which of the following is/are a primary difference(s) between all prokaryotes and eukaryotic cells?

• A. Prokaryotes have DNA that floats freely in the cytoplasm.
• B. Prokaryotes are significantly smaller than eukaryotic cells.
• C. Prokaryotes do not have ribosomes like eukaryotic cells.
• D. a and b.
• E. a, b, and c

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus, so their DNA is not enclosed within a membrane and floats freely in the cytoplasm. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that houses their DNA.
2. Consider the size difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller, typically ranging from 0.1 to 5.0 micrometers in diameter, whereas eukaryotic cells are larger, usually between 10 to 100 micrometers.
3. Evaluate the presence of ribosomes in both cell types. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis. However, the ribosomes in prokaryotes are smaller (70S) compared to those in eukaryotes (80S).
4. Analyze the given statements: 'Prokaryotes have DNA that floats freely in the cytoplasm' is true, as prokaryotes lack a nucleus. 'Prokaryotes are significantly smaller than eukaryotic cells' is also true, as discussed in the size comparison.
5. Determine the accuracy of the statement 'Prokaryotes do not have ribosomes like eukaryotic cells.' This statement is false because prokaryotes do have ribosomes, although they differ in size from those in eukaryotes. Therefore, the correct differences are a and b.