1.1.2

Properties of Prokaryotes

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Prokaryotic Cells

The key features of prokaryotic cells are:

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Plasmids

  • Some prokaryotic cells contain small rings of DNA called plasmids.
  • These plasmids can replicate and move between cells so that genetic information can be shared.
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No mitochondria or chloroplasts

  • Prokaryotic cells do NOT contain mitochondria (where respiration takes place) or chloroplasts (where photosynthesis takes place).
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Single DNA loop

  • Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus (where DNA is stored).
  • Instead, most of their genetic material is stored in a single DNA loop in the cytoplasm (watery jelly that fills the cell).

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

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