Which statement is true?

Which statement is true?

• A. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus containing linear DNA.
• B. Prokaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria.
• C. Prokaryotic cells have circular DNA located in the cytoplasm and no nucleus.
• D. Prokaryotic cells have no nucleus or membrane-bound organelles and circular DNA.

Answer: (D)

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and do not have membrane-bound organelles, and their DNA is typically circular and located in the cytoplasm. This combination is the defining feature that sets prokaryotes apart from eukaryotes. The statement that best fits these traits says there is no nucleus or membrane-bound organelles and that the DNA is circular, residing in the cytoplasm. That is why it is the correct description. The other options describe features of eukaryotic cells (such as a nucleus or mitochondria) or only state part of the picture, making them inaccurate or incomplete for prokaryotes.

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and do not have membrane-bound organelles, and their DNA is typically circular and located in the cytoplasm. This combination is the defining feature that sets prokaryotes apart from eukaryotes. The statement that best fits these traits says there is no nucleus or membrane-bound organelles and that the DNA is circular, residing in the cytoplasm. That is why it is the correct description. The other options describe features of eukaryotic cells (such as a nucleus or mitochondria) or only state part of the picture, making them inaccurate or incomplete for prokaryotes.