2.6 Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells Flashcards
What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have both.
Where is genetic material located in prokaryotic cells?
In prokaryotic cells, genetic material is located in the nucleoid region, where the DNA is free in the cytoplasm.
What are the typical sizes of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
Prokaryotic cells are generally 0.1–5 μm in diameter, while eukaryotic cells are larger, typically 10–100 μm in diameter.
What type of DNA do prokaryotic cells have?
Prokaryotic cells have circular DNA, often a single circular chromosome, and may contain smaller, circular plasmids.
Do prokaryotic cells contain ribosomes?
Yes, prokaryotic cells contain ribosomes (70S), but they are smaller than the ribosomes (80S) found in eukaryotic cells.
Describe the cell wall structure in prokaryotic cells.
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall made of peptidoglycan (murein), providing shape and protection.
What is a capsule in prokaryotic cells, and what is its function?
A capsule is an additional protective layer found outside some prokaryotic cell walls, helping prevent dehydration and offering protection from host immune responses.
What are pili and their function in prokaryotic cells?
Pili are hair-like structures on the surface of some prokaryotes, used for attachment to surfaces and sometimes for the exchange of genetic material during conjugation.
How do flagella function in prokaryotic cells?
Flagella are tail-like structures that enable motility, allowing the cell to move toward or away from stimuli.
What are plasmids, and why are they important?
Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules separate from chromosomal DNA, often carrying genes for antibiotic resistance or other survival traits.
What is binary fission in prokaryotic cells?
Binary fission is the asexual process by which prokaryotic cells replicate, where the cell divides after DNA replication, producing two identical cells.
List key similarities between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Both have DNA, ribosomes for protein synthesis, a cell membrane, and carry out basic life processes like metabolism and reproduction.
How do antibiotics target prokaryotic cells specifically?
Antibiotics target structures unique to prokaryotes, such as the 70S ribosomes and peptidoglycan cell wall, avoiding harm to eukaryotic cells.
