What is the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?
A. Prokaryotes lack ribosomes to make proteins.
B. Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles.
C. Prokaryotes lack a cell membrane on the outside.
D. Prokaryotes use RNA instead of DNA.
B. Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles.
The main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is that prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles, which is option B.
To understand this difference, we need to know the definitions of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are simpler and smaller in size compared to eukaryotic cells. They lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, are more complex and larger in size. They have a membrane-bound nucleus and various membrane-bound organelles.
Option A is incorrect because both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have ribosomes to make proteins. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis in all types of cells.
Option C is incorrect because prokaryotes, just like eukaryotes, have a cell membrane that surrounds the cell and separates it from the external environment. It is a characteristic feature of all cells.
Option D is incorrect because both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells use DNA as their genetic material. RNA, on the other hand, plays a role in gene expression and protein synthesis, but it is not a defining difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Therefore, the correct answer to the main difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is option B: Prokaryotes lack membrane-bound organelles.