Which of the following is a type of cell that lacks a membrane-bounded nucleus?

Study for the Penn Foster Biology – The Cell Test. Enhance your understanding with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Prepare to succeed on your exam!

Prokaryotic cells are characterized by the absence of a membrane-bound nucleus, which distinguishes them from eukaryotic cells. In prokaryotic cells, the genetic material is not enclosed within a nuclear membrane; instead, it is typically found in a region called the nucleoid. This fundamental difference is significant in understanding cellular organization and function.

Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, do have a true nucleus that is enclosed by a nuclear membrane, along with various membrane-bound organelles. The term "multicellular" refers to organisms that consist of more than one cell, which can be either prokaryotic or eukaryotic, but does not specifically address the presence of a nucleus. Plant cells are a type of eukaryotic cell; they possess a nucleus and other organelles surrounded by membranes. Thus, the defining characteristic of prokaryotic cells, lacking a membrane-bound nucleus, solidifies its status as the correct answer.

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