Types of Cells: Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic

Part of Cell Structure · Section 6 of 17

DiagramUnit: Cell BiologyGCSE

This diagram covers Types of Cells: Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic within Cell Structure for GCSE Biology. Cell theory, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, animal and plant cell organelles, bacterial cells, specialized cells, and microscopy It is section 6 of 17 in this topic. Focus on the labels, the relationships between parts, and the explanation that turns the diagram into an exam-ready answer.

🔬 Types of Cells: Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic

Painted comparison of a small prokaryotic bacterial cell (with cell wall, free chromosomal DNA loop, plasmids and ribosomes) next to a larger eukaryotic animal cell (with cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria and ribosomes). The size difference highlights that prokaryotes are smaller and simpler.

Figure 3: Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic cell structure

Feature Prokaryotic Cells Eukaryotic Cells
Nucleus No true nucleus - genetic material free in cytoplasm True nucleus enclosed by nuclear membrane
Size Smaller (1-5 μm) Larger (10-100 μm)
Organelles No membrane-bound organelles Many membrane-bound organelles
Examples Bacteria, Archaea Animal cells, Plant cells, Fungi, Protists

Practice questions for Cell Structure

Which part of the cell contains DNA and controls the cell's activities?

  • A. Nucleus
  • B. Cytoplasm
  • C. Cell membrane
  • D. Mitochondrion
1 markfoundation

Describe the structure and function of chloroplasts.

3 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

What is the function of the nucleus?
The nucleus is the control center of the cell. It contains DNA which controls all cellular activities and heredity.
What is the function of ribosomes?
Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis. They translate mRNA into proteins by linking amino acids together.

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