There are two types of organisms know to us based on cell types : prokaryote and eukaryote . Among the given features , select the one that distinguishes prokaryotic organisms from eukaryotic organisms .

Options

A. Prokaryotes are unicellular , while all eukaryotes are multicellular .
B. Prokaryotes are aquatic , while eukaryotes are terrestrial .
C. Prokaryotes are structurally less complex than eukaryotes are .
D. Prokaryotes lack cell membrane , while eukaryotes .do not .

Answer

To distinguish prokaryotic organisms from eukaryotic organisms, we need to analyze the given options carefully. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Definitions
- **Prokaryotic Organisms**: These are unicellular organisms that lack a well-defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Examples include bacteria and archaea.
- **Eukaryotic Organisms**: These can be unicellular or multicellular and have a well-defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Examples include plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

### Step 2: Evaluate the Options
1. **Option A**: "Prokaryotes are unicellular while all eukaryotes are multicellular."
- **Analysis**: This statement is incorrect because some eukaryotes, like yeast and certain protists, are unicellular.

2. **Option B**: "Prokaryotes are aquatic while eukaryotes are terrestrial."
- **Analysis**: This statement is also incorrect. Prokaryotes (like bacteria) can be found in a variety of environments, including terrestrial ones, and many eukaryotes (like fish) are aquatic.

3. **Option C**: "Prokaryotes are structurally less complex than eukaryotes."
- **Analysis**: This statement is correct. Prokaryotes do not have a well-defined nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, making them structurally simpler than eukaryotic cells, which have a complex structure with various organelles.

4. **Option D**: "Prokaryotes lack cell membrane while eukaryotes do not."
- **Analysis**: This statement is incorrect. Both prokaryotes and eukaryotes have cell membranes.

### Step 3: Conclusion
The correct option that distinguishes prokaryotic organisms from eukaryotic organisms is **Option C**: "Prokaryotes are structurally less complex than eukaryotes."

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