Which description matches a prokaryotic cell?

• A. Contains a nucleus with linear chromosomes and many organelles.
• B. Lacks a nucleus, has linear DNA in the cytoplasm.
• C. Lacks a nucleus, has circular DNA in the nucleoid region and no membrane-bound organelles.
• D. Has a nucleus and circular DNA in mitochondria.

Answer: (C)

Prokaryotic cells are organized without a nucleus and with genetic material that is typically a single circular chromosome located in a region called the nucleoid, not enclosed by a membrane. They also lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria or chloroplasts. The description that matches this is the one stating there is no nucleus, DNA is circular and located in the nucleoid, and there are no membrane-bound organelles. This aligns with the fundamental differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

The other descriptions describe features characteristic of eukaryotic cells or contain mismatches: having a nucleus with linear chromosomes and many organelles is typical of eukaryotes; linear DNA in the cytoplasm without a nucleus is not how prokaryotes store DNA (they have circular DNA in the nucleoid); and having a nucleus plus mitochondria suggests a eukaryotic cell, since prokaryotes lack these features.