Prokaryotic And Eukaryotic Cells Worksheet Answer Key Pdf
Cells are the basic unit of life. They perform various functions which are essential for the existence of living organisms. There are two main types of cells - prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Understanding the difference between these two types of cells is essential for a basic understanding of biology. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive answer key to the worksheet on prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. You can download the answer key in PDF format from the link provided here.
What are prokaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells are cells that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are generally small in size and have a relatively simple structure. Prokaryotic cells are found in bacteria and archaea. They are unicellular organisms, which means that each cell performs all the functions necessary for the organism to survive. Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall that provides shape and protection to the cell. They also have a plasma membrane that surrounds the cytoplasm. In addition, prokaryotic cells have ribosomes which are responsible for protein synthesis. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus but instead, they have a single circular chromosome that consists of DNA.
What are eukaryotic cells?
Eukaryotic cells are cells that have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are generally larger in size and have a more complex structure compared to prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists. They can be unicellular or multicellular organisms. Eukaryotic cells have a cell wall (in plants) or extracellular matrix (in animals) that provides shape and protection to the cell. They also have a plasma membrane that surrounds the cytoplasm. In addition, eukaryotic cells have various membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. These organelles are responsible for performing specific functions within the cell. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus which contains the genetic material in the form of chromosomes.
What are the main differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
The main differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are summarized below:
- Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller in size compared to eukaryotic cells.
- Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles whereas eukaryotic cells have a nucleus and various membrane-bound organelles.
- Prokaryotic cells have a single circular chromosome while eukaryotic cells have multiple linear chromosomes.
- Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall which is made up of peptidoglycan while eukaryotic cells have a cell wall (in plants) or extracellular matrix (in animals) made up of different materials.
- Prokaryotic cells have a simple structure whereas eukaryotic cells have a more complex structure with various organelles.
- Prokaryotic cells are generally unicellular organisms while eukaryotic cells can be unicellular or multicellular organisms.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is essential for a basic understanding of biology. Prokaryotic cells are cells that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are generally small in size and have a relatively simple structure. Eukaryotic cells are cells that have a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are generally larger in size and have a more complex structure compared to prokaryotic cells. By understanding the characteristics of these two types of cells, we can begin to appreciate the incredible complexity of life on Earth.
