What are the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?

Eukaryotes, including animal and plant cells, are characterised by their membrane nucleus. They contain organelles such as mitochondria, which are located in the cytoplasm bound by membranes. Eukayotic cells divide by sexually and asexually, by meiosis or mitosis.

Prokaryotes, which include bacteria and cyanobacteria, don't have a membrane bound nucleus, their DNA exists as circular molecules in the cytoplasm. Prokaryotes divide asexually, usually by binary fission. Prokaryotes are smaller than eukaryotes, generally 1-10um, compared with 10-100um for eukaryotes. 

JW
Answered by Jess W. Biology tutor

10168 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is functional RNA?


Albumin (a globular protein) is a solute found in blood plasma. In liver disease, people cannot produce sufficient amounts of albumin. Describe and explain how this change would affect red blood cells.


How is DNA transcribed into mRNA?


Why does oxygen bind to haemoglobin easier the second time?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning