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Questions and Answers
What is the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
What is the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
What structure gives support and protection to most prokaryotes?
What structure gives support and protection to most prokaryotes?
What is the main component of prokaryotic DNA called?
What is the main component of prokaryotic DNA called?
What is the process called where prokaryotes reproduce?
What is the process called where prokaryotes reproduce?
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What is the function of pili in prokaryotes?
What is the function of pili in prokaryotes?
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What is the primary way that prokaryotes reproduce?
What is the primary way that prokaryotes reproduce?
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Which type of prokaryote gets its energy from chemical reactions involving simple molecules?
Which type of prokaryote gets its energy from chemical reactions involving simple molecules?
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What are organisms that can make their own food called?
What are organisms that can make their own food called?
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Which of the following best describes an organism that can survive with or without oxygen?
Which of the following best describes an organism that can survive with or without oxygen?
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Prokaryotes are able to thrive in a variety of environments. Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to their adaptability?
Prokaryotes are able to thrive in a variety of environments. Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to their adaptability?
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Study Notes
Prokaryotes: Simple but Diverse
- Prokaryotes are the simplest and oldest known living organisms, being single-celled and lacking a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.
- Derived from the Greek words "pro" (before) and "karyon" (nucleus), referencing the lack of a true nucleus.
- Exist in a vast range of environments, from extreme hot spots to freezing Arctic conditions.
- Divided into two major groups: Bacteria and Archaea.
- These two groups differ from each other and from Eukarya (organisms with complex cells).
Prokaryotic Cell Structure
- Simpler than eukaryotes: Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus.
- Nucleoid: Their DNA isn't contained in a nucleus but instead resides in a region of the cytoplasm called the nucleoid.
- Cell Wall: A rigid outer layer providing support and protection, composed primarily of peptidoglycan in bacteria and different materials in archaea.
- Flagella and Pili: External appendages, flagella are whip-like structures for movement, and pili are hair-like structures for attachment.
Prokaryotic Genetic Material
- Circular Chromosome: Typically a single, circular chromosome located in the nucleoid region.
- Plasmids: Small, circular DNA molecules that can replicate independently and may carry genes for beneficial traits (e.g., antibiotic resistance).
- Conjugation: The process by which genetic material (plasmids) can be transferred between prokaryotic cells.
Prokaryotic Reproduction
- Binary Fission: A simple method of asexual reproduction where one cell splits into two identical daughter cells.
Prokaryotic Metabolism
- Autotrophs: Can produce their own food through photosynthesis (photoautotrophs) or chemosynthesis (chemoautotrophs).
- Heterotrophs: Obtain energy by consuming organic molecules from other organisms.
- Oxygen Needs: Heterotrophic prokaryotes differ in their oxygen requirements, including obligate aerobes (require oxygen), obligate anaerobes (cannot tolerate oxygen), and facultative anaerobes (can use or avoid oxygen depending on the environment).
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Description
Explore the fascinating world of prokaryotes, the simplest and oldest living organisms on Earth. This quiz delves into their structure, classification, and adaptability in various environments, highlighting the differences between Bacteria and Archaea. Test your knowledge on these unique cellular organisms!
