1. Presence of a Nucleus:
* Prokaryotic cells: Lack a true nucleus. Their genetic material (DNA) is located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane.
* Eukaryotic cells: Possess a well-defined nucleus enclosed by a nuclear membrane, where their DNA is organized into chromosomes.
2. Organelles:
* Prokaryotic cells: Lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, and lysosomes. They have simpler internal structures.
* Eukaryotic cells: Have a complex internal organization with a variety of membrane-bound organelles that carry out specialized functions.
3. Size:
* Prokaryotic cells: Generally much smaller than eukaryotic cells.
* Eukaryotic cells: Significantly larger, allowing for more complex internal structures and processes.
