Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

Prokaryotic cell

A unicellular organism lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, such as bacteria and archaea.

Eukaryotic cell

A cell that contains a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Cell wall

A rigid structure surrounding the cell membrane of prokaryotic cells, providing support and maintaining cell shape.

Nucleoid

The region of a prokaryotic cell where the DNA is located, not enclosed within a membrane-bound nucleus.

Cytoplasm

The gel-like substance that fills the cell, where various cellular processes occur.

DNA

The genetic material of a cell, present as a molecule in prokaryotes and organized into chromosomes in eukaryotes.

Cell theory

The scientific theory that states all living things are composed of cells, which are the basic units of structure, and that cells arise from pre-existing cells.

Robert Hooke

A scientist who discovered cells in the 1660s and named them "cells" due to their resemblance to rooms or cells where monks lived.

Antonio van Leeuwenhoek

A scientist who observed living cells under a microscope, contributing to the understanding of cell structure and function.

Schleiden, Schwann, and Virchow

Scientists credited for the development of the cell theory, which revolutionized our understanding of cells and their role in living organisms.