Question

Prokaryotes are capable of reproducing more rapidly than eukaryotes because prokaryotes ________.

1) have a larger cell size
2) have a more complex cellular structure
3) have a shorter generation time
4) have a higher mutation rate

Answer 1

Prokaryotes reproduce more rapidly than eukaryotes due to a shorter generation time, facilitated by their smaller size, simpler structure, and more efficient replication process.

Step-by-step explanation:

Prokaryotes are capable of reproducing more rapidly than eukaryotes because prokaryotes have a shorter generation time.

Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, with a larger surface-to-volume ratio, which facilitates faster exchange of nutrients with the environment. Unlike eukaryotes, prokaryotes have fewer requirements for energy and resources, as they do not maintain complex organelles. This, along with the presence of a single origin of replication and streamlined replication machinery, enables prokaryotes to replicate more quickly.

Additionally, the smaller size and simpler structure of prokaryotes mean less DNA to replicate and fewer events occurring during cell division, further speeding up reproduction. Eukaryotic cells, in contrast, have multiple origins of replication and a variety of polymerases for DNA replication, along with additional tasks such as the maintenance of complex organelles and intracellular transport, which contributes to a longer generation time.