Question

Are prokaryotes smaller than eukaryotes?

Answer 1

Benefits of smaller size (prokaryotes):

1. Typical prokaryotic cells range from 0.1 to 5.0 μm (diameter).
2. They are significantly smaller than eukaryotic cells, which usually have diameters ranging from 10 -100 μm.
3. The high surface area relative to low cell volume allows more rapid growth rates.
4. The absence of a complex organ system helps them in easy & quick reproduction.
5. Also, the smaller size of prokaryotes allows ions and organic molecules that enter them to quickly spread to other parts of the cell.