PROKARYOTIC CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A prokaryotic cell is a type of cell that lacks a defined nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. It is one of the two main classifications of cells, the other being eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells are typically smaller and structurally simpler than eukaryotic cells.
Within a prokaryotic cell, genetic material is found in the form of a single circular DNA molecule that floats freely within the cytoplasm. This DNA contains the cell's genetic instructions necessary for its survival and reproduction. Surrounding the DNA is a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a nuclear membrane.
The cytoplasm of a prokaryotic cell contains various structures such as ribosomes that are responsible for protein synthesis. However, absent are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus.
Prokaryotic cells are found in bacteria and archaea, the two domains of life that are distinct from eukaryotes. They are characterized by their ability to adapt and thrive in a wide range of environments, including extreme conditions such as hot springs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, and highly acidic environments.
The absence of a defined nucleus allows for rapid replication and cellular division in prokaryotic cells, resulting in their abundance and diverse forms.
Common Misspellings for PROKARYOTIC CELL
- orokaryotic cell
- lrokaryotic cell
- -rokaryotic cell
- 0rokaryotic cell
- peokaryotic cell
- pdokaryotic cell
- pfokaryotic cell
- ptokaryotic cell
- p5okaryotic cell
- p4okaryotic cell
- prikaryotic cell
- prkkaryotic cell
- prlkaryotic cell
- prpkaryotic cell
- pr0karyotic cell
- pr9karyotic cell
- projaryotic cell
- promaryotic cell
- prolaryotic cell
- prooaryotic cell
Etymology of PROKARYOTIC CELL
The word "prokaryotic" is derived from the Greek words "pro" meaning "before" or "primitive" and "karyon" meaning "nut" or "kernel". The term was coined in 1937 by the German microbiologist Edouard Chatton to describe a type of cellular organization in which the genetic material is not enclosed within a membrane-bound nucleus. The term "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella" meaning "small room" or "cellular chamber". So, the etymology of "prokaryotic cell" refers to a primitive or pre-nucleus cell.
