Seneca
Sign up

Properties of Prokaryotes

Biology: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 1.2.2

Prokaryotic Cells

The key features of prokaryotic cells are:

Plasmids

Plasmids

  • Prokaryotic cells may have one or more small rings of DNA, which are called plasmids.
  • These plasmids can replicate (have copies made) and move between cells so that genetic information can be shared.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts

Mitochondria and chloroplasts

  • Prokaryotic cells do not contain mitochondria (where respiration takes place) or chloroplasts (where photosynthesis takes place).
Lack of nucleus

Lack of nucleus

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

Test yourself on Properties of Prokaryotes

  • Which sub-cellular structures (structures inside the cell) can be found in Prokaryotic cells?

  • Which sub-cellular structures (structures inside the cell) are found in all Eukaryotic cells?

  • A scientist finds cells with different diameters. Which of the following measurements is likely to be that of a prokaryotic cell?

  • Which of the two types of cells measures 10-100 micrometers in size?

Practise this topic for free