# Describe the differences between a prokaryotic cell and a eukaryotic cell.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1) — 1.2 Variety of living organisms · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Prokaryotic cells do not contain a nucleus / eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus
2. Prokaryotic cells contain plasmids (loops of DNA in the cytoplasm) / eukaryotic cells do not contain plasmids
3. Prokaryotic cells are smaller than eukaryotic cells
4. Eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles (e.g. chloroplasts / mitochondria) / prokaryotic cells do not contain membrane-bound organelles

## Key terms

- [prokaryotic cell](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/prokaryotic-cell)
- [eukaryotic cell](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/eukaryotic-cell)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Biology (4BI1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/describe-the-differences-between-a-prokaryotic-44814fe0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.