What do eukaryotic cells have that prokaryotic cells do not?
Quick Answer
Eukaryotic cells have organelles, membrane-bound structures that perform different functions in the cell, and prokaryotic cells do not. Some typical eukaryotic organelles include the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, Golgi apparati and chloroplasts.
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Eukaryotic cells are more organized and complex than prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic DNA is housed in the nucleus, whereas prokaryotic DNA floats freely in the cytoplasm.
In the 1970s, Dr. Lynn Margulis theorized that the organelles of eukaryotic cells were at one time prokaryotes that were engulfed by larger cells. The larger cells became the hosts, protecting the smaller cells, while the smaller cells provided food to their hosts. In time, neither could exist without the other. This endosymbiotic theory was supported by the evidence that organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts resemble modern-day bacteria.
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Q:
What is an eukaryotic cell?
A: Eukaryotic cells are advanced cells that have, at minimum, a cellular membrane surrounding cytoplasm, a cytoskeleton and membrane-covered organelles. More ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is a prokaryotic cell?
A: Prokaryotic cells are single cells that evolved before eukaryotes, which are organisms whose cells contain nuclei and organelles. A prokaryotic cell has no... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is an organism with a cell that lacks a true nucleus?
A: Organisms whose cells lack nuclei are called prokaryotic cells or prokaryotic organisms. They differ from organisms called eukaryotic, which have nuclei in... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
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What is a membrane-bound organelle?
A: Organelles are structures within a cell that have specific functions; membrane-bound organelles are organelles protected by a single or double plasma membr... Full Answer >Filed Under:
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