What are the major differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
Prokaryotes:
1. Structure:
- Prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
- They have a simple structure with a cell wall, plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and a single circular DNA molecule.
- The genetic material is not enclosed within a nucleus but is present in the nucleoid region.
2. Size:
- Prokaryotes are generally smaller in size, ranging from 0.1 to 5 micrometers.
3. Reproduction:
- Prokaryotes reproduce asexually through binary fission, where the DNA replicates and the cell divides into two identical daughter cells.
4. Metabolism:
- Prokaryotes exhibit diverse metabolic pathways, including photosynthesis, respiration, and fermentation.
- They can be autotrophic (synthesize their own food) or heterotrophic (obtain nutrients from the environment).
5. Movement:
- Prokaryotes may possess flagella or pili for movement, enabling them to swim or move towards or away from stimuli.
Eukaryotes:
1. Structure:
- Eukaryotes are organisms with complex cellular structures, including a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
- They have a well-defined nucleus that contains the genetic material (DNA) enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
- Membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes are present.
2. Size:
- Eukaryotes are generally larger in size, ranging from 10 to 100 micrometers.
3. Reproduction:
- Eukaryotes reproduce both sexually and asexually.
- Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes, leading to genetic variation.
4. Metabolism:
- Eukaryotes exhibit a wide variety of metabolic pathways.
- They can be autotrophic (plants) or heterotrophic (animals and fungi).
5. Movement:
- Eukaryotes possess various mechanisms for movement, such as cilia, flagella, or amoeboid movement.
- Some eukaryotes are sessile and do not exhibit active movement.
Comparison:
1. Nucleus:
- Prokaryotes lack a true nucleus, while eukaryotes have a well-defined nucleus.
2. Membrane-bound Organelles:
- Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes possess various organelles such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.
3. Size:
- Prokaryotes are smaller than eukaryotes.
4. Reproduction:
- Prokaryotes reproduce asexually through binary fission, while eukaryotes can reproduce both sexually and asexually.
5. Complexity:
- Eukaryotes are more structurally and functionally complex compared to prokaryotes.
6.
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