Describe key structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells are the two main types of cells that exist. Prokaryotic cells are simpler in structure compared to eukaryotic cells, and lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.

One key difference is that prokaryotic cells have no nucleus, while eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus that is surrounded by a nuclear membrane. The nucleus in eukaryotic cells contains the genetic material, or DNA, in the form of chromosomes.

Another difference is that eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and lysosomes, which perform various functions within the cell. In contrast, prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, with the exception of ribosomes.

Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller in size compared to eukaryotic cells, and their cell wall is composed of peptidoglycan, while eukaryotic cells have a more complex cell wall made of cellulose or chitin.

Finally, prokaryotic cells have circular DNA and reproduce via binary fission, while eukaryotic cells have linear DNA and reproduce via mitosis or meiosis.

Overall, these structural differences reflect the evolutionary divergence of the two cell types and the distinct strategies they employ to carry out their cellular functions.