What are the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are smaller and less complex than Eukaryotic cells. Bacterial cells are prokaryotic, whereas plant and animal cells are eukaryotic. In terms of structure, there are three key differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes: 1. Outer layor of the cell - Prokaryotes have a cell membrane surrounded by a cell wall. Except for plants and fungi, eukaryotes only have a cell membrane. 2. Cell contents - Prokaryotes and eukaryotes both have cytoplasm containing ribosomes. Eukaryotes also contain membrane bound organelles, such as mitochondria, chloroplasts and the nucleus. 3. Storage of genetic material - Prokaryotic DNA is stored in the cytoplasm in a sinlgle strand. Additional DNA is found in rings called plasmids. Eukaryotic DNA, on the hand, is found in the nucleus.

CC
Answered by Charlotte C. Biology tutor

4226 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure of proteins in terms of Primary, Secondary, Tertiary and Quaternary structures


describe the structure of the cardiovascular system, considering causes, resulting outcomes and treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD)


What are pathogens and how do they cause disease?


A company plan to produce GM mosquitoes which carry a gene that causes the death of offspring before reaching adulthood. Male mosquitoes do n't feed on blood, so scientists are planning on releasing millions of GM males. Do you think they should?


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