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Gabriela
11/12/2025
Biology
Eukaryotic vs Prokaryotic cells
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11 Dec 2025
•
Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells: Diagrams, Definitions, and Comparisons
Gabriela
@gabriela.my.school.journey16
1 / 4
Types of Cells and Cell Division
There are two main types of cells that you need to know about: eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells. The key difference is that eukaryotic cells have a proper nucleus (like a control centre), whilst prokaryotic cells don't.
Eukaryotic cells include both animal and plant cells, and they're much larger than prokaryotes - typically ranging from 5 μm to 100 μm. These cells divide through a process called mitosis, which creates identical copies of themselves.
Animal cells contain several important structures: the nucleus, mitochondria, cytoplasm, cell membrane, and ribosomes. Plant cells have all of these plus three extra bits: chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a cell wall for extra strength, and a large vacuole for storage.
Remember: Eukaryotic = "true nucleus" - these are the more complex cells that make up plants and animals.
Functions of Cell Structures
Each part of a cell has a specific job, and knowing what each one does will help you understand how cells stay alive and function properly.
The nucleus is like the cell's brain - it contains all the genetic material (DNA) and controls everything the cell does. Mitochondria are the powerhouses that release energy from glucose through aerobic respiration, giving the cell the energy it needs to survive.
The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance where most chemical reactions happen, whilst the cell membrane acts like a bouncer, controlling what goes in and out of the cell. Ribosomes are tiny factories that make proteins.
Plant cells have three unique features: chloroplasts contain chlorophyll to capture sunlight for photosynthesis, the cell wall (made of cellulose) provides extra strength and protection, and the permanent vacuole stores cell sap to keep the plant upright and firm.
Top tip: Think of each cell structure like a different room in a house - each has its own purpose but they all work together!
Bacterial Cells (Prokaryotes)
Bacterial cells are completely different beasts - they're prokaryotes, which means they don't have a proper nucleus. Instead, their genetic material floats around freely in a loop called the nucleoid.
These cells are absolutely tiny, usually between 0.2 μm and 2.0 μm - that's about the same size as a single mitochondrion! They divide through binary fission, which is basically just splitting in two.
Bacterial cells have some unique features you won't find in plant or animal cells. Plasmids are small circles of extra DNA, flagella are whip-like tails that help them swim around, and pili help them stick to surfaces. Many bacteria also have a protective slime capsule around their cell wall.
Unlike plant cell walls (which are made of cellulose), bacterial cell walls are made of completely different materials. This is why certain antibiotics can target bacterial cell walls without harming human cells.
Quick fact: Some bacteria can move faster than you might think - their flagella can spin at up to 1,000 rotations per second!
Cell Comparison Summary
Now you can see the big picture! Animal cells, plant cells, and bacterial cells each have their own special features, but they also share some common structures.
All three types have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, genetic material (DNA), and ribosomes - these are the absolute basics needed for life. Think of these as the essential survival kit that every cell needs.
The differences are what make each cell type special. Animal and plant cells have their DNA neatly packaged in a nucleus and have mitochondria for energy. Plant cells go one step further with chloroplasts, cell walls, and permanent vacuoles. Bacterial cells keep it simple with plasmids and a loop of DNA instead of a nucleus.
Exam tip: Making a table comparing these three cell types is a great revision technique - it helps you see the similarities and differences clearly!
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells: Diagrams, Definitions, and Comparisons
Gabriela
@gabriela.my.school.journey16
Every living thing on Earth is made up of cells - they're literally the building blocks of life! Understanding the different types of cells and how they work is crucial for biology, and once you get the basics down, it... Show more
Types of Cells and Cell Division
There are two main types of cells that you need to know about: eukaryotic cells and prokaryotic cells. The key difference is that eukaryotic cells have a proper nucleus (like a control centre), whilst prokaryotic cells don't.
Eukaryotic cells include both animal and plant cells, and they're much larger than prokaryotes - typically ranging from 5 μm to 100 μm. These cells divide through a process called mitosis, which creates identical copies of themselves.
Animal cells contain several important structures: the nucleus, mitochondria, cytoplasm, cell membrane, and ribosomes. Plant cells have all of these plus three extra bits: chloroplasts for photosynthesis, a cell wall for extra strength, and a large vacuole for storage.
Remember: Eukaryotic = "true nucleus" - these are the more complex cells that make up plants and animals.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
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Functions of Cell Structures
Each part of a cell has a specific job, and knowing what each one does will help you understand how cells stay alive and function properly.
The nucleus is like the cell's brain - it contains all the genetic material (DNA) and controls everything the cell does. Mitochondria are the powerhouses that release energy from glucose through aerobic respiration, giving the cell the energy it needs to survive.
The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance where most chemical reactions happen, whilst the cell membrane acts like a bouncer, controlling what goes in and out of the cell. Ribosomes are tiny factories that make proteins.
Plant cells have three unique features: chloroplasts contain chlorophyll to capture sunlight for photosynthesis, the cell wall (made of cellulose) provides extra strength and protection, and the permanent vacuole stores cell sap to keep the plant upright and firm.
Top tip: Think of each cell structure like a different room in a house - each has its own purpose but they all work together!
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Bacterial Cells (Prokaryotes)
Bacterial cells are completely different beasts - they're prokaryotes, which means they don't have a proper nucleus. Instead, their genetic material floats around freely in a loop called the nucleoid.
These cells are absolutely tiny, usually between 0.2 μm and 2.0 μm - that's about the same size as a single mitochondrion! They divide through binary fission, which is basically just splitting in two.
Bacterial cells have some unique features you won't find in plant or animal cells. Plasmids are small circles of extra DNA, flagella are whip-like tails that help them swim around, and pili help them stick to surfaces. Many bacteria also have a protective slime capsule around their cell wall.
Unlike plant cell walls (which are made of cellulose), bacterial cell walls are made of completely different materials. This is why certain antibiotics can target bacterial cell walls without harming human cells.
Quick fact: Some bacteria can move faster than you might think - their flagella can spin at up to 1,000 rotations per second!
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Improve your grades
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Cell Comparison Summary
Now you can see the big picture! Animal cells, plant cells, and bacterial cells each have their own special features, but they also share some common structures.
All three types have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, genetic material (DNA), and ribosomes - these are the absolute basics needed for life. Think of these as the essential survival kit that every cell needs.
The differences are what make each cell type special. Animal and plant cells have their DNA neatly packaged in a nucleus and have mitochondria for energy. Plant cells go one step further with chloroplasts, cell walls, and permanent vacuoles. Bacterial cells keep it simple with plasmids and a loop of DNA instead of a nucleus.
Exam tip: Making a table comparing these three cell types is a great revision technique - it helps you see the similarities and differences clearly!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
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Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user