Difference Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells with Examples

Difference between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells: Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are important topics for the NEET exam . A study of the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells in tabular form makes the topic easier when preparing for the NEET exam. Prokaryotic cells are simple and do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. They are usually smaller and less complex than eukaryotic cells, which do have a nucleus and organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. The article below explains Difference between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells in detail, along with examples.

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What is Prokaryotic Cell?

A prokaryotic cell is a type of cell that does not have a true nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. These cells are found in organisms like bacteria and archaea. Unlike eukaryotic cells, which have a defined nucleus and different organelles surrounded by membranes, prokaryotic cells have their genetic material floating freely in the cytoplasm.

Prokaryotic cells reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission, where one cell splits into two identical cells. Despite their simple structure, prokaryotic cells are very diverse and can live in many different environments, including extreme heat and high salt levels.

What is Eukaryotic Cell?

A eukaryotic cell is a type of cell that has a clearly defined nucleus surrounded by a nuclear membrane. This nucleus contains the cell's genetic material, or chromosomes. Eukaryotic cells also have various organelles, like mitochondria (which produce energy), the Golgi apparatus (which processes and packages proteins), and the endoplasmic reticulum (which makes proteins and lipids).

These cells are found in many organisms, including animals, plants, fungi, and protists, making them larger and more complex than prokaryotic cells, which do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

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Difference Between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

To help NEET aspirants understand the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, The table below provides a Difference between Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells to aid in your NEET exam preparation.

Examples of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller than eukaryotic cells, lacking a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They are primarily unicellular and are divided into two main groups: bacteria and archaea. Some Examples of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells are as follows:

Prokaryotic Cells

1. Bacteria :
   • Escherichia coli (E. coli): A common bacterium found in the intestines of humans and other animals.
   • Staphylococcus aureus : A bacterium that can cause various infections.
2. Archaea :
   • Methanogens : Microorganisms that produce methane and are found in anaerobic environments, such as swamps.
   • Halophiles : Salt-loving organisms found in high-salinity environments, like salt lakes.

Eukaryotic Cells

1. Animal Cells :
   • Human cells: Such as muscle cells or nerve cells.
   • Red blood cells: Cells responsible for transporting oxygen in the bloodstream.
2. Plant Cells :
   • Leaf cells: Contain chloroplasts for photosynthesis.
   • Root cells: Specialized for water and nutrient absorption.
3. Fungal Cells :
   • Yeast: Single-celled fungi used in baking and brewing.
   • Mold: Multicellular fungi found on decaying organic matter.
4. Protist Cells :
   • Amoeba : A single-celled organism that moves using pseudopodia.
   • Paramecium : A ciliated protist found in freshwater environments.

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