Microbiology Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

1. Membrane-bound organelles

2. Binary fission for reproduction

3. Complex compartmentalization

4. Presence of a nucleus

The correct answer is: Binary fission for reproduction

Prokaryotic cells are defined by several key characteristics that differentiate them from eukaryotic cells. One of the most notable features is their method of reproduction, which occurs primarily through binary fission. In binary fission, a single prokaryotic cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This process is straightforward and efficient, allowing for rapid population growth under favorable conditions. This characteristic is vital for understanding the life cycle of prokaryotes, as it contrasts with the more complex reproductive mechanisms found in eukaryotic cells, which may involve mitosis and meiosis. In contrast, prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria or the endoplasmic reticulum, which are typical in eukaryotic cells, and they do not have a defined nucleus. Instead, the genetic material in prokaryotes is found in a nucleoid region, which is not membrane-bound. Additionally, prokaryotic cells exhibit a simpler level of organization without the compartmentalization seen in eukaryotic cells. Therefore, binary fission stands out as a fundamental characteristic that highlights the reproductive mechanisms unique to prokaryotes.