Question

Prokaryotes have only ?

Answer 1

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They have a single piece of circular DNA located in the nucleoid and most prokaryotes have a cell wall outside the plasma membrane.

Step-by-step explanation:

Prokaryotes have a number of characteristics that distinguish them from eukaryotes. They are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Instead, they have a single piece of circular DNA located in an area called the nucleoid. Most prokaryotes also have a cell wall outside the plasma membrane, which functions as a protective layer. Some prokaryotes may also have additional structures such as a capsule, flagella, and pili. Bacteria and Archaea are the two domains of prokaryotes, and they differ in the compositions of their cell membranes and the characteristics of their cell walls.

Answer 2

Prokaryotes have only one cellular compartment, which is the nucleoid.

Step-by-step explanation:

Prokaryotes, such as bacteria and archaea, differ from eukaryotic cells in their cellular organization. The term "prokaryote" itself highlights a key characteristic—they lack a true nucleus. Instead, prokaryotic cells contain a nucleoid, a region where the genetic material, typically a singular circular DNA molecule, is located. This nucleoid is not enclosed by a membrane, distinguishing it from the membrane-bound nucleus found in eukaryotic cells.

In addition to the nucleoid, prokaryotic cells consist of other essential structures like ribosomes, cell membranes, and cell walls (in the case of bacteria). The absence of membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, is another hallmark of prokaryotes. This streamlined structure suits the simpler lifestyle of prokaryotic organisms, allowing for efficient and rapid responses to their environments.

The nucleoid serves as the central repository for genetic information, coordinating vital cellular functions. While prokaryotes lack the elaborate compartmentalization seen in eukaryotic cells, their minimalist design contributes to their adaptability and success in diverse ecological niches.