Here's why:
* Eukaryotic cells are characterized by the presence of a true nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, and vacuoles. These organelles compartmentalize cellular functions, allowing for more complex and efficient processes.
* Prokaryotic cells, on the other hand, lack a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. They are simpler in structure and function, with their genetic material located in a region called the nucleoid.
So, the key difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells lies in the presence of complex membrane-bound organelles, which are characteristic of eukaryotic cells.