Learning Objects : Lifelong Application

RLO: Prokaryotes and eukaryotes

• Introduction
• Prokaryotes: characteristics
• Prokaryotes: examples
• Eukaryotes: characteristics
• Eukaryotes: examples
• Activity 1
• Activity 2
• Feedback
• Resources

Eukaryotes: characteristics

Eukaryotic means possessing ‘a true nut or kernel’. Here, the genetic material is packaged into chromosomes and is enclosed by a specialised membrane. The resulting structure is called the nucleus. Eukaryotic cells are much bigger - 10-100 µm - and demonstrate a much more diverse and complex internal organisation than prokaryotic cells.

Animals, plants, fungi and protoctists are all constructed of eukaryotic cells, ranging from single to multicellular organisms.

When you've completed this section, click the button on the media player, or click the 'Eukaryotes: examples' tab above to continue.