Prokaryotic cells (like bacteria) are simple, lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Their DNA is free-floating in the cytoplasm. Eukaryotic cells (like animal and plant cells) are complex, with a nucleus housing DNA and organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts for specialized functions, enabling greater cellular complexity and diversity.
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Prokaryotic Cells: Simple, unicellular organisms without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. Their DNA is circular and located in the cytoplasm. Examples include bacteria and archaea.
Eukaryotic Cells: Complex cells with a nucleus containing linear DNA and membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. They can be unicellular or multicellular, forming plants, animals, fungi, and protists.
These differences influence their functions, structures, and evolutionary roles.
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ in their structure and complexity. Prokaryotic cells, found in organisms like bacteria and archaea, lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, with their genetic material located in a nucleoid region. They are generally smaller and simpler in structure. Eukaryotic cells, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists, have a well-defined nucleus that contains their genetic material and various membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, the endoplasmic reticulum, and the Golgi apparatus. Eukaryotic cells are larger and more complex, allowing for specialized functions within the cell.