Differences Between Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells
What are the key features to distinguish between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?
What features should be observed to determine if a cell is eukaryotic and undergoing mitosis or prokaryotic?
Key Features to Distinguish Between Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells
To distinguish between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, there are several key features that can help in the identification process.
Eukaryotic cells are differentiated from prokaryotic cells by several distinct characteristics:
- Nucleus: Eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus, which is a membrane-bound organelle that houses the cell's genetic information in the form of DNA. Prokaryotic cells, on the other hand, lack a nucleus and have their genetic material floating freely in the cytoplasm.
- Organelles: Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, which are responsible for specific cellular functions. Prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles.
- Cell Size: Eukaryotic cells are generally larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells.
- DNA Replication: Eukaryotic cells undergo mitosis as a part of their cell division process, which involves the duplication of chromosomes and separation of genetic material into two daughter cells. Prokaryotic cells do not undergo mitosis.
- Plasma Membrane: Both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have a plasma membrane that surrounds the cell and regulates the passage of molecules in and out of the cell.
By closely examining these key features, one can determine whether a cell is eukaryotic and undergoing mitosis or prokaryotic.