Final answer:
Options 2 and 4 are correct. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus and are smaller than eukaryotic cells, which have a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Prokaryotes reproduce via binary fission while eukaryotes use mitosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, we must consider various aspects in order to identify the correct statements. To address the student's options:
- Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not. This statement is incorrect. Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus; their DNA is located in a region called the nucleoid. On the other hand, eukaryotic cells have a membrane-bound nucleus.
- Prokaryotic cells are smaller in size compared to eukaryotic cells. This statement is correct. Prokaryotic cells, ranging from 0.1-5.0 µm in diameter, are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, which have diameters ranging from 10-100 µm.
- Prokaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells do not. This statement is incorrect. Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, whereas eukaryotic cells contain numerous membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.
- Prokaryotic cells reproduce through binary fission, while eukaryotic cells reproduce through mitosis. This statement is correct. Prokaryotic cells divide by binary fission, a simpler process compared to mitosis, which is how eukaryotic cells usually reproduce.
In summary, option 2 and 4 are correct. Prokaryotic cells are smaller than eukaryotic cells, and they reproduce through binary fission. Eukaryotic cells, in contrast, have a membrane-bound nucleus, contain membrane-bound organelles, and reproduce through mitosis.