Prokaryotic Cell Membrane and Wall

This page continues the discussion of prokaryotic cell structure and function, focusing on the cell membrane, cell wall, and external structures.

1. Cell Membrane: A semi-permeable and selective barrier surrounding the cell.
2. Cell Wall: A rigid outer covering made of peptidoglycan that maintains cell shape and prevents lysis (bursting).
3. Slime Capsule: A thick polysaccharide layer that protects against desiccation and phagocytosis.

Vocabulary: Peptidoglycan - A polymer consisting of sugars and amino acids that forms a mesh-like layer outside the plasma membrane of bacterial cells.

Highlight: The cell wall is a crucial difference between archaebacteria and eubacteria. While both have cell walls, the composition differs significantly.

Comparison of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

This page provides a brief comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, highlighting key differences in their structure and organization.

While prokaryotes lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, eukaryotes possess both. This fundamental difference leads to several other distinctions:

1. DNA Organization: Prokaryotes have a single circular chromosome in the nucleoid, while eukaryotes have linear chromosomes enclosed in a nuclear membrane.
2. Cell Size: Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.
3. Organelles: Eukaryotes have membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, which are absent in prokaryotes.

Definition: Eukaryotic cell diagram would show a nucleus, membrane-bound organelles, and a more complex internal structure compared to a prokaryotic cell diagram.

Highlight: Understanding the differences between archaebacteria and eubacteria as well as the distinctions between prokaryotes and eukaryotes is crucial for comprehending the diversity of life on Earth.