Final answer:
The origin of the eukaryotic cell is explained by the endosymbiotic theory, which suggests that eukaryotic cells evolved through the incorporation of smaller prokaryotic cells such as mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The origin of the eukaryotic cell is explained by the endosymbiotic theory. This theory suggests that eukaryotic cells evolved from the incorporation of smaller prokaryotic cells. According to this theory, mitochondria and chloroplasts, which have their own DNA and replicate independently within eukaryotic cells, were originally free-living bacteria that were engulfed by a primitive host cell. This symbiotic relationship eventually led to the development of complex eukaryotic cells.
Learn more about Origin of eukaryotic cells