Differences and Similarities Between Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells

Eukaryotic Cells

• Definition: Cells that have their genetic material enclosed in a nucleus.
• Examples: Animal cells and plant cells.
• Features:
  • Nucleus: Contains the DNA (genetic material).
  • Cell Membrane: Present around the edge of the cell.
  • Cytoplasm: Present within the cell membrane.

Prokaryotic Cells

• Definition: Cells that do not have their genetic material enclosed in a nucleus.
• Examples: Bacterial cells.
• Features:
  • DNA: Single loop of DNA, not enclosed in a nucleus.
  • Plasmids: Small rings of DNA that may also be present.
  • Cell Membrane: Present.
  • Cell Wall: Present, distinct from plant cell walls.
  • Cytoplasm: Present.

Key Differences

• Nucleus:
  • Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus.
  • Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus.
• Size:
  • Prokaryotic cells are smaller than eukaryotic cells.
• Cell Wall:
  • Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, which is different from the plant cell wall.

Additional Resources

• For more practice questions on eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, refer to the revision workbook available through the provided link.