Explain why a eukaryotic cell can carry out more complex functions than a prokaryotic cell.
Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).
Eukaryotic cells, such as those found in animals and plants, contain membrane-bound organelles. Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, do not contain membrane-bound organelles and are generally smaller.
Model answer (4 marks)
Eukaryotic cells have a membrane‑bound nucleus, which stores DNA and regulates gene expression, so they can control which proteins are produced.
The nucleus is surrounded by a nuclear envelope, giving a distinct compartment for transcription and RNA processing.
Eukaryotic cells also contain specialised membrane‑bound organelles such as mitochondria, chloroplasts and the endoplasmic reticulum.
These organelles perform specific functions, allowing many processes to occur at the same time and providing compartmentalisation that increases functional complexity.
The nucleus is surrounded by a nuclear envelope, giving a distinct compartment for transcription and RNA processing.
Eukaryotic cells also contain specialised membrane‑bound organelles such as mitochondria, chloroplasts and the endoplasmic reticulum.
These organelles perform specific functions, allowing many processes to occur at the same time and providing compartmentalisation that increases functional complexity.
Examiner tips
- Use the word "nucleus" and note it is membrane‑bound; link to gene control. Mention key organelles and their roles. Show how compartmentalisation allows simultaneous processes. Keep answer concise and use exam terminology.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting to state that the nucleus is membrane‑bound. Using vague terms like "organelles" without naming examples. Failing to explain how compartmentalisation increases complexity.
Mark scheme (4 marks)
- Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus / nucleus is membrane-bound
- The nucleus controls cell activities / controls which proteins are made / controls gene expression
- Eukaryotic cells contain specialised membrane-bound organelles (e.g. mitochondria / chloroplasts / endoplasmic reticulum)
- These organelles carry out specific functions / allow different processes to occur simultaneously / provide compartmentalisation
Key terms in this question
eukaryotic cell · prokaryotic cell
Related
- Revision notes: Cell biology →
- How to answer a "Explain" question →
- Decode the mark scheme abbreviations →
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