What is the difference between a prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell?

There are several key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are found in multicellular plants and animals, whereas prokaryotic cells are found in bacteria and archaea which are ususlly unicellular. I have summarised the key differences below: 1. Prokayotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles, such as the endoplasmic reticulum or mitochondria. 2. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus, instead they have circular DNA that is free in the cytoplasm. 3. Prokaryotic cells have smaller ribosomes than eukaryotic cells. 4. Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall. Their cell wall is made from a different material to a plant cell, a glycoprotein called murein. Prokaryotic cells may also have a protective layer called a capsule, flagellum to aid in movement and one or more plasmids. 

CM
Answered by Charlotte M. Biology tutor

21900 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is chemiosmosis?


Garlic contains a chemical called Allicin which has antimicrobial properties. Describe how this could have occurred through natural selection.


What happens in the light dependent reaction in photosynthesis?


Why is the tertiary structure of maltase essential to its function?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning