Prokaryotic Cells
What is a defining feature of prokaryotic cells?
Lack a membrane bound nucleus
What organelle is responsible for photosynthesis?
The chloroplast
What common feature do prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells share?
Both have a plasma membrane
Describe the structure of a prokaryotic chromosome
Prokaryotic chromosome are typically circular and consist of a single strand of DNA that is not associated with histone proteins
What is the function of the rough ER
Synthesizes and processes proteins
Name one similarity between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
Both contain ribosomes for protein synthesis
Name one common shape of prokaryotic cells
Cocci, Bacilli, and Spirilla
Name one specialised organelle involved in cellular respiration
Mitochondria
Why is it important for cells to have a common evolutionary past?
Suggests all life forms share fundamental biological processes and structures indicating shared ancestry
How do prokaryotic cells reproduce?
Asexually through binary fission
Describe the role of lysosomes in eukaryotic cells
They contain enzymes that break down waste materials and cellular debris
How do the structures of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells reflect their functions?
Simple structure of prokaryotic cells allows for rapid production and adaptation while the complex structures of eukaryotic cells enable compartmentalization of functions and specialisation.
What is one example of a prokaryotic organism
Bacteria, e.g. E. coli
How does the size of eukaryotic cells compare to prokaryotic cells?
Eukaryotic cells are larger
Discuss one evolutionary advantage of cellular organelles in eukaryotic cells
Cellular organelles allow for increased efficiency and specialisation in cellular processes, enabling eukaryotic cells to perform more complex functions than prokaryotic cells