Final answer:
Prokaryotic cells are smaller and simpler than eukaryotic cells, with a higher surface area-to-volume ratio, a single loop of DNA, and highly-regulated gene expression. Eukaryotic cells are larger and more complex, with a true nucleus, multiple chromosomes, and less-regulated gene expression.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparison of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
The most accurate comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is that prokaryotic cells are generally smaller with a higher surface area-to-volume ratio compared to eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler in structure, lack a membrane-bound nucleus, and typically have a single circular DNA molecule, sometimes accompanied by plasmids. In contrast, eukaryotic cells are larger, more complex, possess a true nucleus surrounded by a nuclear membrane, and contain multiple chromosomes within the nucleus.
Prokaryotic cells typically measure 0.1 to 5.0 μm in diameter, which helps with the efficient diffusion of ions and organic molecules throughout the cell, as well as the quick expulsion of waste products. Eukaryotic cells, however, range from 10 to 100 μm in diameter and have developed structural adaptations for intracellular transport due to their larger sizes and more complex internal organization, including the presence of various membrane-bound organelles.
Despite these differences, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells also share some common features such as ribosomes, plasma membranes, and the use of DNA for genetic information.
When comparing gene expression, prokaryotic cells are known for highly-regulated gene expression, unlike eukaryotic cells, which perform more complex and less-regulated gene expression processes.