Question

Which of these do all prokaryotes and eukaryotes share? a. nuclear envelope b. cell walls c. organelles d. plasma membr ane

Short answer

Answer: The common feature shared by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is the plasma membrane.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the terms

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are two different types of cells that make up all living organisms. Prokaryotes are simple, single-celled organisms that do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles (e.g., bacteria). Eukaryotes are more complex and can be single-celled or multicellular organisms. They have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., animals, plants, fungi, and protists). Now let's analyze each given option to find the common feature.

Analyzing option (a) - Nuclear Envelope

The nuclear envelope is a double membrane surrounding the nucleus in a cell. This feature is present only in eukaryotic cells as they have a nucleus. Prokaryotic cells, on the other hand, do not have a nucleus, so they do not possess a nuclear envelope. So, this option is not shared by both types of cells.

Analyzing option (b) - Cell Walls

Cell walls are rigid structures that provide support and protection to the cells. In general, prokaryotic cells have cell walls. However, not all eukaryotic cells have cell walls. While plant and fungal cells have cell walls, animal cells do not possess this feature. So, this option is not shared by all prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Analyzing option (c) - Organelles

Organelles are membrane-bound structures within a cell that perform specific functions. Prokaryotes do not have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotes have them. Therefore, this option is not common to both types of cells.

Analyzing option (d) - Plasma Membrane

The plasma membrane is a phospholipid bilayer that forms the outer boundary of a cell. It controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have a plasma membrane.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis above, the correct answer is (d) plasma membrane. This is the feature that is common to both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.