Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells: Structure and Characteristics

This page provides an in-depth comparison of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, highlighting the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells, represented by animal and plant cells, are described in detail, emphasizing their unique structures and functions.

Definition: Eukaryotic cells are characterized by the presence of a nucleus containing genetic material, while prokaryotic cells lack a defined nucleus.

Animal cells are described as having cytoplasm, a cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes. The cytoplasm is explained as a liquid-like substance that gives cells their shape and serves as a location for many chemical reactions. The cell membrane is noted as semi-permeable, controlling what enters and exits the cell.

Vocabulary: Cytoplasm - A liquid-like substance within cells that hosts many chemical reactions and contributes to cell shape.

Plant cells share many features with animal cells but have additional structures. These include a cell wall made of cellulose, a vacuole filled with cell sap, and chloroplasts for photosynthesis. The function of the vacuole in plant cells is highlighted, noting its ability to expand or shrink.

Highlight: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are found above soil and contain green pigment to trap sunlight for photosynthesis.

Prokaryotic cells, exemplified by bacteria, are described as having no nucleus but possessing a cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, slime capsule, plasmid, and flagellum. This section emphasizes the simpler structure of prokaryotic cells compared to eukaryotic cells.

Example: Bacteria, as prokaryotic cells, have a simpler structure but include unique features like a slime capsule and flagellum.

The page concludes by reiterating that eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, serving as a key distinguishing feature from prokaryotic cells.