Distinguish between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, and explain at least 5 differences and 5 similarities between plant and animal cells.
Understand the Problem
The question involves distinguishing between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, along with comparing plant and animal cells. It requires an understanding of cellular biology concepts such as size, complexity, and specific organelles.
Answer
Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus; eukaryotic cells have it. Plant cells have a cell wall, chloroplasts; animal cells have lysosomes. Both share cell membrane, cytoplasm.
Prokaryotic cells are smaller and simpler, lacking membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus. Eukaryotic cells are larger, complex, and have a nucleus and organelles.
Differences between plant and animal cells:
- Plant cells have a cell wall; animal cells do not.
- Plant cells are usually rectangular; animal cells are circular.
- Plant cells contain chloroplasts; animal cells do not.
- Animal cells have lysosomes and vesicles; plant cells generally do not rely on these structures.
Similarities between plant and animal cells:
- Both have a cell membrane.
- Both contain cytoplasm.
- Both have a nucleus.
- Both carry DNA.
- Both have mitochondria.
Answer for screen readers
Prokaryotic cells are smaller and simpler, lacking membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus. Eukaryotic cells are larger, complex, and have a nucleus and organelles.
Differences between plant and animal cells:
- Plant cells have a cell wall; animal cells do not.
- Plant cells are usually rectangular; animal cells are circular.
- Plant cells contain chloroplasts; animal cells do not.
- Animal cells have lysosomes and vesicles; plant cells generally do not rely on these structures.
Similarities between plant and animal cells:
- Both have a cell membrane.
- Both contain cytoplasm.
- Both have a nucleus.
- Both carry DNA.
- Both have mitochondria.
More Information
Prokaryotic cells are mostly bacteria, while eukaryotic cells make up plants, animals, fungi, and protists. Plant cells can produce their own food through photosynthesis.
Tips
Confusing cell wall presence: Only plant cells have cell walls, not animal cells.
Sources
- Comparing Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells: Similarities and Differences - news-medical.net
- Differences Between Plant and Animal Cells - ThoughtCo - thoughtco.com
