Compare the structure of prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms have some similar structures: cells membranes (selectively permeable membranes surrounding cells and controlling the entry and exit of materials), cytoplasm (the living substance inside a cell), ribosomes (the site of protein synthesis and differen sizes in the different types of organisms) and, in some eukaryotes, cell walls (support providing structure on the outside of a cell). 

They do also have some differences, these include the fact that the genetic material of prokaryotic cells is a single loop of DNA that lies in the cytoplasm but in eukaryotic organisms, it is in the nucleus. Also, prokaryotes are smaller and have additional DNA in the form of plasmids. Plasmids are small, ringed DNA molecules and are very rarely found in eukaryotes.

PT
Answered by Paige T. Biology tutor

4500 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is eutrophication?


What is the correct order of the reflex arc?


How exactly do 'carcinogens' actually cause cancer after damaging cells?


Why are the lungs adapted for the rapid absorption of oxygen into the blood?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning