One difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes is that ____
a
prokaryotes do not have a nucleus.
b
mitochondria are found in larger quantities in prokaryotes.
c
nucleic acids are rarely found, and only in eukaryotes.
d
ribosomes are found only in eukaryotes.
a
prokaryotes do not have a nucleus.
a. Prokaryotes do not have a nucleus.
The correct answer is A - prokaryotes do not have a nucleus. To understand why this answer is correct, let's break down the options and explain them:
a) Prokaryotes do not have a nucleus: This statement is true. Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms that do not have a true nucleus. Instead, their genetic material is found in a region of the cell called the nucleoid, which lacks a surrounding membrane.
b) Mitochondria are found in larger quantities in prokaryotes: This statement is incorrect. Mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production in cells, are typically found in larger quantities in eukaryotes, not prokaryotes.
c) Nucleic acids are rarely found, and only in eukaryotes: This statement is incorrect. Nucleic acids are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. In fact, nucleic acids, like DNA and RNA, play a vital role in the genetic material and gene expression of all living organisms.
d) Ribosomes are found only in eukaryotes: This statement is incorrect. Ribosomes, which are responsible for protein synthesis, are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. However, there are slight differences between the ribosomes of prokaryotes and eukaryotes in terms of size and structure.
Overall, the correct answer is A, as it accurately distinguishes one of the key differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.