Final answer:
Eukaryotic cells have subcellular compartments called organelles, enabling complex processes and regulating gene expression, unlike prokaryotic cells which lack such compartmentalization.The correct answer is option C.
Step-by-step explanation:
Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic Cells
Eukaryotic cells have subcellular compartments called organelles, whereas prokaryotic cells do not exhibit compartmentalization.
Eukaryotic cells are characterized by having a membrane-bound nucleus, where the DNA is stored, and numerous other membrane-bound organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, and more, which allow eukaryotic cells to perform a wide range of functions and maintain a high level of regulation of gene expression.
In contrast, prokaryotic cells, which include organisms such as bacteria, lack these specialized compartments and instead have DNA that resides in the cytoplasm in a region called the nucleoid.
Compartmentalization in eukaryotes facilitates the division of labor among different organelles, enabling eukaryotic cells to sustain larger sizes and more complex processes.
Prokaryotic cells, on the other hand, are generally smaller and lack internal structures that are bounded by plasma membranes; they rely on a large surface area to volume ratio to facilitate rapid diffusion of chemicals through their cytoplasm for metabolism and growth.The correct answer is option C.