What's the difference between a eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell?

Animal and plant cells are types of eukaryotic cells and bacteria are a type of prokaryotic cell. Eukaryotic cells contain their DNA in a nucleus and have membrane bound organelles such as the smooth and rough endoplasmic reticulum, golgi apparatus, and lysosome. However, prokaryotic cells contain their DNA in the form of circular DNA free in the cytoplasm and also have DNA in plasmids, which are circular. They also have no membrane bound organelles and have pili to help them stick to other bacteria cells and they can also have a slime capsule for protection. Another main difference is that all prokaryotic cells have a cell wall whereas not all eukaryotic cells do- only plant cells have a cell wall, not an animal cell. 

RC
Answered by Remi C. Biology tutor

21197 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What happes in mitosis?


Name and describe the process that leads to air entering the lungs


Explain the difference between Lamarck’s and Darwin’s theory of evolution? Why was Darwin’s more successful?


Explain how blood circulates through the heart?


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