Humber Admissions Practice Test

Which type of cells are larger and more complex, containing a nucleus?

1. Prokaryotic cells

2. Eukaryotic cells

3. Bacterial cells

4. Archaea cells

The correct answer is: Eukaryotic cells

Eukaryotic cells are characterized by their size and complexity, as they contain a true nucleus surrounded by a nuclear membrane. This nucleus houses the cell's genetic material, allowing for better regulation of gene expression and cellular processes. Eukaryotic cells also have various membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum, which perform specialized functions within the cell. In contrast, prokaryotic cells, which include bacterial and archaea cells, are typically smaller and simpler in structure. They lack a distinct nucleus; instead, their genetic material is found in a region called the nucleoid. While both bacterial and archaea cells share some similarities with eukaryotic cells, they do not possess the advanced compartmentalization and organized structure that define eukaryotic cells. Therefore, the presence of a nucleus and the overall complexity of eukaryotic cells underscore why they are classified as larger and more intricate than their prokaryotic counterparts.