PROKARYOTIC VS EUKARYOTIC CELLS

Prokaryotic Cells

Cells characterized by the absence of a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, originating from the Greek words "karyon" (nucleus) and "pro" (before).

Eukaryotic Cells

Cells containing a membrane-bound nucleus and various organelles, originating from the Greek words "eu" (true) and "karyon" (nucleus).

Unicellular Organisms

Organisms composed of a single cell, typically with a short lifespan.

Multicellular Organisms

Organisms consisting of multiple cells organized into complex structures.

Plasmid

Small DNA packets in bacteria that can be exchanged with other bacteria.

Capsule

A slimy protective layer surrounding some bacteria.

Pili

Hair-like structures on bacteria that aid in attaching to surfaces.

Flagella

Whip-like structures used for locomotion in some cells.

Phagocytosis

The process by which a cell engulfs solid particles.

Pinocytosis

The process by which a cell takes in liquid droplets.

Nucleoid Region

An area in prokaryotic cells where naked DNA is located, lacking a surrounding membrane.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis, smaller in prokaryotes and larger in eukaryotes.

Lysosomes

Membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotic cells containing digestive enzymes.

Mitochondria

Organelles in eukaryotic cells that produce energy through cellular respiration.

Endoplasmic Reticulum (E.R.)

A network of membranes in eukaryotic cells involved in protein and lipid synthesis.

Golgi Apparatus

An organelle in eukaryotic cells that modifies, sorts, and packages proteins.

Chloroplasts

Organelles in plant cells that conduct photosynthesis, absent in prokaryotes.

Cytoskeleton

A network of protein filaments in eukaryotic cells providing structural support.

Nuclear Membrane

A double membrane surrounding the nucleus in eukaryotic cells, absent in prokaryotes.

Cell Wall

A rigid outer layer found in plant cells, fungi, and prokaryotes, with varying chemical compositions.

Vacuoles

Membrane-bound sacs in cells used for storage and waste management.

Cilia

Short, hair-like structures on eukaryotic cells used for movement or sensing the environment.

Centrioles

Structures in animal cells involved in cell division.

Plasmodesmata

Channels in plant cell walls allowing communication between adjacent cells.

Examples of Prokaryotes

Bacteria and archaea.

Examples of Eukaryotes

Animals, plants, fungi, and protists.

Virus

A non-cellular infectious agent composed of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat.

Amoeba

A unicellular eukaryotic organism with a flexible cell membrane and pseudopods for movement.