How do prokaryotes differ from eukaryotes?

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms (e.g. bacteria) which lack any membrane bound organelles. Thus, they are anuclear (have no nucleus) and their DNA is circular and found in the nucleoid area of the prokaryote.
On the other hand, eukaryotes are multicellular organisms such as plants, animals and funghi. Unlike prokaryotes, the DNA of eukaryotes are arranged intro chromosomes and held in a nucleus.
As well as this, prokaryotes have smaller ribosomes than eukaryotes. They also have cell walls (unlike eukaryotes). Prokaryotes may also have a flagella or plasmid DNA.

AP
Answered by Aneesa P. Biology tutor

3701 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the differences between meiosis and mitosis


What process is known as cell 'eating'and give one example of that process relating to the human immune system?


Explain how a simple reflex works, you answer should include a) one type of receptor and the stimulus that the receptor detects. b) how information is passed from the receptor to the effector


Name and briefly describe the function of three organelles possessed by a plant cell. State an organelle that is present in a plant cell but not in an animal cell.


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