Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes Lesson

Prokaryotes vs. Eukaryotes

Biology Foundations

1. Cell membrane (plasma membrane)

Structure: lipid bilayer that separates the outside of the cell and the inside (cytoplasm)

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Function: controls what enters and exits the cell; maintains homeostasis for cell.

2. Cytoplasm

Structure: fluid-filled region inside of the cell

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Function: the cytoplasm is jelly-like and holds all of the organelles in place

​3. DNA

​Structure: double helix; nucleotides

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Function: store and transmit genetic information​

4. Ribosomes 

​Structure: free floating or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum.

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​Function: make​ proteins for the cell

There are two groups of organisms based on cell type:

Prokaryotes

• single-celled organisms with prokaryotic cells

• have circular DNA

• does not have a nucleus or other membrane bound organelles

• microscopic ​

Examples: Bacteria & Archea

Eukaryotes

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• can be single-celled or multicellular organisms with eukaryotic cell(s)​

• have membrane bound organelles

• linear DNA found inside of the nucleus

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Examples: Plants, Animals, Protists, Fungi

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​Fungal cell

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a virus?

• A

• B

• C

• D