This Eukaryotic Cell (above) contains many "membrane -bound" internal structures. The phospholipid bilayer surrounding them serves to compartmentalize the biochemistry of the cell. Different types of reactions occur in the Mitochondria, Endomembrane system, and the Nucleus. Prokaryotic cells lack these internal, membrane-bounded structures.

tour of animal cell

Prokaryotic cells (like the one on the left) are surrounded by a carbohydrate Cell Wall and a Plasma membrane. Prokaryotic cells lack internal membrane-bound structures. The DNA is "loose" in the cytoplasm.

Prokaryotic cells do not have mitochondria, an endomembrane system, or Chloroplasts. They do contain Ribosomes which are used for protein synthesis. If we remember, Ribosomes are RNA protein complexes and are not membrane-bounded structures

tour of Bacterium

Back to Bacteria

Optional Extensive Cell tutorial. For Bio majors, but you're just as smart as they are.