Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cell Structure

Steps:

• Identify key features: Bacteria are prokaryotes; fungi are eukaryotes.
• Compare nucleus: Prokaryotes lack a membrane-bound nucleus; eukaryotes have one.
• Evaluate options: Check which highlights the nuclear difference.
• Select the mismatch: Bacterium lacks a true nucleus, unlike fungal cells.

Why C is correct:

• Bacteria are prokaryotic cells without a membrane-bound nucleus, while fungal cells are eukaryotic with a defined nucleus containing genetic material.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Both bacteria and fungi have cell walls (bacterial: peptidoglycan; fungal: chitin).
• B: Both have cytoplasm as the fluid matrix for organelles and processes.
• D: Bacteria do not have a true nucleus; this describes fungal cells instead.

Final answer: C