Definition
Eukaryotic cells contain their genetic material (DNA) enclosed in a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus enclosing their genetic material.
10 Differences Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
- Animal Cells
- Eukaryotes
- Plant Cells
- Prokaryotes
Differences in Genetic Material
Eukaryotic cells have their genetic material (DNA) enclosed in a nucleus, while the genetic material of prokaryotic cells is not enclosed.
Cell Wall
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall, while eukaryotic cells do not have a cell wall.
Cytoplasm
Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have cytoplasm, which is the gel-like substance where most of the chemical reactions happen. It contains enzymes that control these chemical reactions.
Cell Size
Prokaryotic cells are much smaller than eukaryotic cells.
5 Functions of Cell Membrane
- Holds the cell together and controls what goes in and out.
- Structure and function of cell membrane differ in plant and animal cells.
Eukaryotes Examples
- Animal cells
- Plant cells
Prokaryotes Examples
- Bacteria cells
- Plasmids
Cell Differentiation in Animals and Plants
Cell differentiation is the process by which a cell changes to become specialized for its job. Most differentiation occurs as an organism develops. In most animal cells, the ability to differentiate is lost after becoming specialized, but many plant cells retain this ability throughout their life.
Examples of Specialized Cells
- Sperm cells
- Nerve cells
- Muscle cells
- Root hair cells
These specialized cells have adaptations that help them to carry out their particular functions. When cells become specialized, that process is called differentiation.
In animals, the cells that differentiate in mature animals are mainly used for repairing cells, whereas in plants, cells retain the ability to differentiate throughout their life.
[Table to illustrate the differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes]
It is important to note that mitochondrial DNA, chloroplast DNA, and certain bacterial genomes are exceptions to the equivalence of nuclear versus cytoplasmic genetic material.
For specific examples of specialized cells and their functions, refer to the following sections.
Animal Cell Specialization
- Sperm cells: specialized for fertilization and contain half the genetic information of a normal adult cell.
- Nerve cells: transmit electrical impulses from one part of the body to another.
- Muscle cells: capable of contraction and contain protein fibers that can change their length.
Plant Cell Specialization
- Root hair cells: specialized for absorbing water and minerals from the soil.
The above examples illustrate how cells differentiate and develop different subcellular structures to carry out specific functions.
