Question

which statement best describes a difference between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells? a the presence of both dna and ribosomes in prokaryotic cells indicates that they are more complex than eukaryotic cells. b the larger size of prokaryotic cells indicates that they are more complex than eukaryotic cells. c the presence of membrane - bound organelles in eukaryotic cells indicates that they are more complex than prokaryotic cells. d the larger size of eukaryotic cells indicates that they are more complex than prokaryotic cells.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Prokaryotic cells are simpler than eukaryotic cells. Having DNA and ribosomes doesn't make them more complex. Eliminate A.
• Option B: Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells, and size doesn't directly indicate complexity. Eliminate B.
• Option C: Eukaryotic cells have membrane - bound organelles (like nucleus, mitochondria), while prokaryotic cells do not. The presence of these organelles allows for more compartmentalized and complex functions, so this correctly states that eukaryotic cells are more complex due to membrane - bound organelles.
• Option D: While eukaryotic cells are larger, the key difference in complexity is the presence of membrane - bound organelles, not size. Eliminate D.

Answer:

C. The presence of membrane - bound organelles in eukaryotic cells indicates that they are more complex than prokaryotic cells.