Final answer:
Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms without a nucleus but contain DNA within a nucleoid area. They can conduct photosynthesis and undergo horizontal gene transfer, but do not reproduce sexually nor have organelles like the Golgi apparatus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prokaryotes, such as bacteria and archaea, are singular cell organisms that are unique because they lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. While they do not have a defined nucleus, they do contain DNA, which is housed within an area called the nucleoid. Their genetic material is a single circular chromosome, not wrapped around histones as seen in eukaryotes. Most prokaryotes also have a sturdy cell wall exterior to their plasma membrane. Additionally, energy collection from sunlight is possible for some prokaryotes, notably cyanobacteria, which can perform photosynthesis.
Regarding their reproduction, prokaryotes do not reproduce sexually as eukaryotes do; they usually multiply through binary fission, which is an asexual process. However, they can exchange genetic material through mechanisms such as conjugation, transformation, and transduction, which is often mistakenly likened to sexual reproduction but is more accurately termed horizontal gene transfer. This process can result in genetic diversity within prokaryotic populations. Conversely, despite a lack of compartmentalization, prokaryotes do perform complex functions such as protein synthesis within ribosomes, similar to eukaryotes, but they lack organelles like the Golgi apparatus.