Prokaryotes and eukaryotes are the two broad categories that cells fall under. Prokaryotic cells are fairly simple. They do not have any membrane-bound organelles. In terms of cellular structures, they have a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes. Prokaryotic cells are unicellular and small.
On the contrary, eukaryotic cells have the same cellular structures as prokaryotic cells and more.These types of cells do have membrane-bound organelles. These organelles play specific roles in the function of an organism and cell. The organelles rely on each other to carry out functions within the cell. For example, the Golgi Apparatus and ER work together in synthesizing and packaging proteins. Another difference is that eukaryotic cells can be either unicellular or multicellular and are large. Examples of Prokaryotes
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How To Remember the Difference
Eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus. Their DNA is stored in the nucleus. Prokaryotic cells do not have a true nucleus, their DNA floats around in the cytoplasm.
"True" or "Not true" Prokaryotic - Circular DNA
Eukaryotic - Linear DNA |
Membrane Bound Organelles and Their Functions
Nucleus- store DNA
Mitochondria- Breaks down sugar to produce energy Golgi Body- packages and transports proteins and lipids, preparing them for departure from the cell Endoplasmic Recticulum- transport proteins and other molecules throughout the cell Vacuole- stores water and other materials Chloroplasts- absorbs energy through photosynthesis Lysosome- absorb and digest waste in the cell Ribosome- make proteins Cytoskeleton- Cytoplasm- Carries nutrients; fills up space Plasma Membrane- semi-permeable membrane that regulates what enters and exits the cell; protects the cell Cell Wall- provides a rigid structure and support system |