Eukaryotic cells are the opposite of prokaryotic cells. They contain a nucleus and other organelles. Prokaryotic cells are cells without a nucleus, meaning they are much simpler in structure. The DNA of the cell is usually located within the nucleus. Eukaryotic cells also contain mitochondria. Mitochondria produces energy for the cell using oxidative phosphorylation. This process is much more efficient than the straightforward glycolysis pathway in prokaryotes.
Differences between Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes
Prokaryotes
• Single-celled types that are microscopic.
• Prokaryotic cells do not have a well-organized nucleus.
• Membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, plastids, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi bodies are absent.
• Amitosis is the process of cell division.
Eukaryotes
• Cells are eukaryotic, meaning they have a well-organized nucleus with nuclear membrane and nucleoplasm, and they can live alone or in colonies. Chromosomes and nucleolus
• Membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, plastids, and Golgi bodies can be found.
• Mitosis or meiosis is the process by which cells divide.