What is a key structural difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

• A. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not.
• B. Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
• C. Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, while eukaryotic cells do not.
• D. Eukaryotic cells are always unicellular, while prokaryotic cells are multicellular.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the basic definitions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and lack a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and have a defined nucleus.
2. Identify the presence of membrane-bound organelles as a key structural feature. Eukaryotic cells contain organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, which are enclosed by membranes.
3. Recognize that prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles. Their cellular components are not separated by membranes, which is a significant structural difference.
4. Consider the presence of a cell wall. While many prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, some eukaryotic cells, like plant cells, also have a cell wall, but it is not a universal feature of all eukaryotic cells.
5. Clarify the misconception about cellularity. Eukaryotic cells can be either unicellular or multicellular, whereas prokaryotic cells are typically unicellular.