Difference Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are two basic types of cells that differ in various aspects:

Structural Differences:

Prokaryotic cells are simple cells without a defined nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. The genetic material in prokaryotic cells is present in the cytoplasm in the form of a single circular DNA molecule. On the other hand, eukaryotic cells have a well-defined nucleus that houses the genetic material, which is organized into multiple linear chromosomes. Eukaryotic cells also contain membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.

Size Differences:

Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, with a size ranging from 1-10 micrometers. Eukaryotic cells are larger, typically ranging from 10-100 micrometers in diameter.

Cell Division:

Prokaryotic cells reproduce through binary fission, a simple form of cell division where the cell divides into two identical daughter cells. Eukaryotic cells undergo a more complex process of cell division called mitosis, which involves multiple stages and results in two daughter cells with identical genetic material.

Evolutionary Differences:

Prokaryotic cells are considered more primitive and are believed to have evolved earlier than eukaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells likely evolved from prokaryotic cells through a process known as endosymbiosis, where one cell engulfed another, leading to the development of organelles within eukaryotic cells.