Describe the differences between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.

WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 1.1.1 Cell structure and organisation · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus – their DNA is free in the cytoplasm, whereas eukaryotic cells have a nucleus surrounded by a nuclear membrane.
Prokaryotic cells are generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.
Prokaryotic cells have no membrane‑bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells contain organelles such as mitochondria.
Prokaryotic cell walls are made of peptidoglycan (murein), whereas plant eukaryotic cell walls are made of cellulose.

Examiner tips

Use the word ‘lack’ or ‘have no’ to show absence. Mention size difference explicitly. Include a specific organelle example. State the different wall material for each type.

Common mistakes

Confusing the type of DNA (linear vs circular) with organelle presence. Using ‘cell membrane’ instead of ‘cell wall’ for prokaryotes. Omitting the nucleus as a key difference.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Prokaryotic cells have no nucleus / genetic material is not enclosed in a nuclear membrane, whereas eukaryotic cells have a nucleus
Prokaryotic cells are smaller than eukaryotic cells
Prokaryotic cells have no membrane-bound organelles, whereas eukaryotic cells contain membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria
Prokaryotic cells have a cell wall made of peptidoglycan / murein, whereas plant eukaryotic cell walls are made of cellulose OR prokaryotic DNA is circular / found free in the cytoplasm

Key terms in this question

prokaryotic cell · eukaryotic cell