Prokaryotes Overview Quiz

Study Notes

Prokaryotes consist of unicellular organisms, including Bacteria and Archaea.
Bacteria have a more permeable cell wall, providing less protection from high temperatures and extreme pH, while Archaea possess a thicker, strong cell wall suited for harsh environments.
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus; DNA is concentrated in the nucleoid, a membrane-free region.
Major components include cell wall, cell membrane, ribosomes, and nucleoid.
Prokaryotes play vital roles in nutrient recycling by decomposing dead organisms, assisting in ecosystem sustainability.
Gut and mouth bacteria aid in food digestion by breaking down complex carbohydrates.

Eukaryotic organisms possess a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles which execute specialized functions.
The term "eukaryote" is derived from Greek, meaning "true kernel."
Major organelles in eukaryotic cells include the cell membrane, cell wall, ribosomes, nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysosomes.
Eukaryotes encompass four kingdoms: Plantae, Animalia, Fungi, and Protista.
Plants: Photosynthetic organisms with cell walls and specialized reproductive tissues.
Animals: Lack cell walls, capable of locomotion, possess digestive tracts.
Fungi: Decompose food externally and absorb nutrients through cell walls.

Eukaryotic evolution features the transition from unicellular to multicellular forms and the adaptation from aquatic to terrestrial environments.
Animal adaptations include the development of skeletons for support, skin to minimize water loss, and specialized muscles for movement.

Animal tissues are classified into four main types: Epithelial, Connective, Muscle, and Nervous.
Epithelial tissue serves as protective linings or coverings and is characterized by closely joined cells with tight junctions.

Cuboidal: Specialized for secretion.
Simple Columnar: Brick-shaped cells for secretion and absorption.
Simple Squamous: Plate-like for material exchange through diffusion.
Stratified Squamous: Multiple layers for protection.
Pseudo-stratified Columnar: Appears layered due to varying cell heights, typically found in the respiratory tract lined with cilia.

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells exhibit distinct characteristics; distinguishing features are critical for classification and understanding their specialized functions.