Compare a eukaryotic cell with a prokaryotic cell

Both the eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells have a cell surface membrane and contain cytoplasm and ribosomes. However, eukaryotic cells contain membrane bound organelles, such as mitochondria, nuclei, endoplasmic reticulum and chloroplasts. While both eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells can have a cell wall, in eukaryotic cells the cell wall is made out of cellulose (plants) or chitin (fungi) whilst in prokaryotic cells the cell wall is made out of peptidoglycan. Prokaryotic cells are much smaller than eukaryotic cells, possibly being up to 10 times smaller, also prokaryotic cells do not contain a nucleus, they have free DNA in the cytoplasm that forms circular loops called plasmids.

RO
Answered by Rebecca O. Biology tutor

3465 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What are the main differences between eukaryotes and prokaryotes?


How does an action potential work?


What is the difference between DNA and RNA?


Describe Gaseous exchange in the alveoli of the lungs


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning