Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells Flashcards

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What is a eukaryotic cell?

A eukaryotic cell is a cell that has a nucleus. Animal and plant cells are eukaryotic.

What is a prokaryotic cell?

A prokaryotic cell is a small, simple cell that does not have a nucleus. Bacterial cells are prokaryotic.

What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that contains the DNA. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus, so their DNA is free in the cytoplasm.

Where is the genetic material found in a prokaryotic (bacterial) cell?

In a prokaryotic cell the main DNA is a single circular loop in the cytoplasm. There can also be small extra loops of DNA called plasmids.

Where is the genetic material found in a eukaryotic cell?

In a eukaryotic cell the DNA is inside the nucleus. It is arranged as chromosomes.

Name three structures you would find in a typical animal (eukaryotic) cell.

A typical animal cell has a cell membrane, cytoplasm and a nucleus. It also has mitochondria.

Name three structures you would find in a typical bacterial (prokaryotic) cell.

A typical bacterial cell has a cell membrane, a cell wall and cytoplasm. It also has a loop of DNA. Many have plasmids, a flagellum for movement or a slime capsule for protection.

How do the sizes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells compare?

Prokaryotic cells are much smaller, about 1–5 micrometres (µm) across. Eukaryotic cells are larger, about 10–100 micrometres (µm) across.

Do prokaryotic cells have mitochondria or chloroplasts?

No. Prokaryotic cells do not have these parts. Their reactions happen in the cytoplasm or at the cell membrane.

Give one example of an organism made of eukaryotic cells and one made of prokaryotic cells.

Humans or oak trees are made of eukaryotic cells. Bacteria are made of prokaryotic cells.