How do prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ?

Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller than eukaryotic cells, which are complex and contain membrane-bound organelles.

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are the two main types of cells that make up all living organisms. The key difference between the two lies in their structure and complexity. Prokaryotic cells, found in bacteria and archaea, are generally smaller and simpler. They lack a true nucleus and instead have a nucleoid, a region where the DNA is concentrated. Prokaryotic cells also lack other membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria or chloroplasts. Their cellular processes, such as metabolism and protein synthesis, occur directly in the cytoplasm.

Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, are found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists. They are larger and more complex, with a true nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane. This nucleus contains the cell's DNA. Eukaryotic cells also contain a variety of other membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, chloroplasts (in plants), the endoplasmic reticulum, and the Golgi apparatus. These organelles compartmentalise the cell and allow for more specialised functions.

Another key difference is in their genetic material. Prokaryotic cells have a single, circular chromosome, while eukaryotic cells have multiple, linear chromosomes. Additionally, eukaryotic cells reproduce through mitosis and meiosis, while prokaryotic cells reproduce through a process called binary fission.

The cell wall is another distinguishing feature. While both types of cells can have cell walls, their composition differs. Prokaryotic cell walls, particularly in bacteria, contain a substance called peptidoglycan. Eukaryotic cells, specifically plant cells, have cell walls made of cellulose.

In terms of ribosomes, which are responsible for protein synthesis, prokaryotic cells have smaller, 70S ribosomes, while eukaryotic cells have larger, 80S ribosomes.

Finally, the presence of flagella or cilia can also differ between the two. While both can have these structures for movement, they are structurally different. In prokaryotes, flagella are simpler and composed of the protein flagellin, while in eukaryotes, they are complex and composed of microtubules.

In summary, while both prokaryotic