What are the defining characteristics of eukaryotic cells?
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A membrane-bound nucleus, a central cavity surrounded by membrane that houses the cell’s genetic material.
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A number of membrane-bound organelles, compartments with specialized functions that float in the cytosol.
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Mitotic division which results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent cell.
Practice Questions
Khan Academy
MCAT Official Prep (AAMC)
Biology Question Pack, Vol. 1 Question 40
Biology Question Pack, Vol 2. Passage 8 Question 50
Key Point
• Eukaryotic cells have a membrane bound nucleus and organelles, as well as undergo mitotic division.
Key Terms
Nucleus: membrane housing genetic material
Organelles: membrane-bound compartments with specialized functions
Mitotic division: cell division resulting in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent cell
Membrane–bound: organelles, meaning that these organelles (e.g. mitochondria, lysosome, etc.) are surrounded by a phospholipid bilayer
Eukaryotic: are organisms whose cells have a nucleus enclosed within membranes
