Question

Compare how both prokaryotes and eukaryotes use two of the cell

structures listed and describe the common functions of these structures

Answer 1

Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use the plasma membrane to regulate their internal environment and ribosomes for protein synthesis. Eukaryotic cells have complex, membrane-bound organelles for compartmentalization of functions, which prokaryotes lack.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells share certain cellular structures which perform common functions essential for the cell's survival, despite the more complex nature of eukaryotic cells compared to prokaryotic cells. We can compare how these two types of cells use the plasma membrane and ribosomes.

The plasma membrane of both cell types functions as a selective barrier, allowing the cell to maintain a stable internal environment while interacting with the external environment. This membrane regulates the passage of substances into and out of the cell and is crucial for communication and signaling.

Ribosomes are the sites of protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. While the ribosomes of prokaryotes are smaller and less complex, the function is remarkably similar - linking amino acids together to form proteins, as dictated by the genetic code.

Differences arise in terms of structure and complexity where eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles allowing compartmentalization of various functions, whereas prokaryotes typically do not.