Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

Prokaryotes are uni- or multicellular organisms made up of cells that do not have a nuclear envelope (pro - before, karyon - nucleus). The genetic material is not bound in a nucleus. They also lack cell organelles such as an endoplasmic reticulum, a Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and mitochondria. Prokaryotes are divided into two main groups namely the Bacteria and the Archaea (ancient bacteria).

Eukaryotes are organisms that possess a membrane-bound nucleus that holds genetic material (eu - true, karyon - nucleus). Eukaryotes may contain other membrane-bound cell organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts. Eukaryotic organisms can be unicellular or multicellular. Eukaryotes include organisms such as plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Table: Differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Prokaryotes	Eukaryotes
Small cells	Large cells
Unicellular or multicellular	Often (but not always) multicellular
Genetic material is not contained within a nucleus	Genetic material is contained in a membrane-bound nucleus
Cells have a simple membrane internal system but no organelles Example: no chloroplast, no mitochondria	Cells have a distinct membrane system with organelles Examples: Chloroplast, mitochondria, golgi bodies