What are the structural differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells?

Size: prokaryotic cells tend to be smaller.Outer layers: prokaryotic cells have a cell membrane surrounded by cell wall, while eukaryotic cells have a cell membrane but only plants and fungi have a cell wall.DNA: Prokaryotes have DNA free in the cytoplasm in a single molecule, while eukaryotes have DNA contained within the nucleus which is membrane bound. Type of Cell Division: Prokaryotes use binary fission, Eukaryotes use mitosis. Cell contents: Eukaryotes have membrane bound organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts (plants) in addition to ribosomes. Prokaryotes lack mitochondria and chloroplasts.

AG
Answered by Alex G. Biology tutor

4191 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does the human body's respiratory system enable the rapid exchange of gases between oxygen and CO2?


Explain the structure of the heart and relate the structure to its function


What is active transport?


How are the different types of blood vessel adapted to their function in the circulatory system?


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