Lesson 7 - Prokaryotes & Eukaryotes

Question 1

What are Prokaryotic Cells?

Answer 1

• Pro: before; karyote: nucleus
• First cells to evolve
• Do not contain a membrane-bound nucleus
• Do not contain organelles smaller than a ribosome
• Bacteria
• DNA is a single, circular strand
• The cell wall is used as a target for antibiotics

Question 2

What are Eukaryotic Cells?

Answer 2

• Eu: good/true; karyote: nucleus
• More complex internal structure, and includes a
  nucleus
• Include membrane-bound organelles
• Early prokaryotes were engulfed by other
  prokaryotes and remained within
• This formed a symbiotic relationship
• Created an eukaryotic cell
• Protists, Fungi, Plants, Animals

Question 3

Endosymbiotic Theory

Answer 3

Specifically, it suggests that mitochondria and chloroplasts, key organelles within eukaryotic cells, originated as independent prokaryotic organisms that were engulfed by a larger cell. Over time, these engulfed prokaryotes evolved a symbiotic relationship with their host cell, eventually becoming permanent organelles.

• The idea that larger prokaryotic (bacteria) cells engulf other smaller prokaryotic cells.
• The smaller prokaryotic cells became the organelles (like mitochondria and chloroplasts) that helped the cells function and evolve into animal and plant cells