Science Common Sense

1426 - What is the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Let's break down the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells in simple terms:

Prokaryotic Cells:

1. Structure: No nucleus (meaning no separate control center), no membrane-bound organelles (like tiny organs inside the cell), and a single circular DNA.
2. Function:
3. Control center (DNA) is not separate, so the whole cell is affected.
4. Make proteins using a single area called a "ribosome".
5. Limited movement, mostly through flagella (like tiny tails).

Examples: Bacteria (like good or bad germs)

Eukaryotic Cells:

1. Structure: Has a nucleus (separate control center), membrane-bound organelles (like tiny organs inside the cell), and multiple linear DNA.
2. Function:
3. Control center (nucleus) is separate, so cell components work independently.
4. Make proteins using many areas (organelles like "mitochondria" for energy and "endoplasmic reticulum" for protein transport).
5. More complex movement using flagella, cilia (like many tiny hairs), and amoeba-like movements.

Examples: Animal cells (like in humans), Plant cells, Fungus cells.

The main difference is that prokaryotic cells are simpler, while eukaryotic cells are more complex and have specialized parts that work together to keep the cell alive.