Which of the following is a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

• A. They are typically larger than eukaryotic cells.
• B. They lack a membrane-bound nucleus.
• C. Their DNA is enclosed within a nuclear envelope.
• D. They contain membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.
2. Recall that prokaryotic cells do not have a membrane-bound nucleus, meaning their genetic material is not enclosed within a nuclear envelope.
3. Recognize that eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, while prokaryotic cells lack these structures.
4. Note that the DNA in prokaryotic cells is typically found in a nucleoid region, which is not separated from the rest of the cell by a membrane.
5. Based on these characteristics, identify that the correct feature of prokaryotic cells is that they lack a membrane-bound nucleus.