Prokaryotic cells

Compare to eukaryotic cells

Smaller than eukaryotic cells

Lacks membrane bound organelles

Ribosomes are smaller (70s) than eukaryotic cells (80s)

No nucleus

Cell wall (glycoprotein)

Plasmids

Small loops of DNA (circular molecules of DNA) , contains genes that can pass between prokaryotes

DNA replication transferring DNA between bacteria, gene expression

Capsules

Protection

Thick , slimy layer of polysaccharide that covers the cell wall

Prevents cell from drying out, helps adhesion to surfaces

Flagella

[ SINGULAR FLAGELLUM ]

movement , propels the cell forwards using a corkscrew motion

A long, thin projection attached to the cell wall

Pili

[SINGULAR PILUS]

allows bacteria attach to surfaces

Hairlike extensions on the surface of bacterial cells

Helps cells adhere to various surfaces, primarily each other

Mesosomes

Folds of the membrane , infolds of the plasma membrane, associated with enzymes

Main processes : aerobic respiration, DNA replication, cell wall formation

Cell wall

Supports and prevents cell changing shape, provides strength, support, protection against damage

Forms a rigid outer covering over the cell, made of peptidoglycan

Pili

Hair like structures on the cell surface

Help prokaryotes stick together

Help transfer genes between cells

Circular DNA

Genetic material consists of single circular strands of DNA that is not contained in a membrane bound nucleus

Nucleoid

Area in the prokaryotic cell where circular DNA molecule is found