[Campbell Biology P.170] Which of the following is a key structural difference that typicall... | Practice Question

Which of the following is a key structural difference that typically distinguishes multicellular eukaryotic cells like plant and animal cells from single-celled eukaryotes?

  • A: Multicellular eukaryotes exhibit cell specialization and form tissues and organs, unlike single-celled eukaryotes.
  • B: Plant cells possess chloroplasts, which are completely absent in all single-celled eukaryotes.
  • C: Animal cells lack cell walls, while all single-celled eukaryotes possess them.
  • D: Only multicellular eukaryotes use mitochondria for energy production.

Explanation

The fundamental difference between multicellular organisms and single-celled organisms is the division of labor among cells. Multicellular eukaryotes have specialized cells organized into tissues, organs, and organ systems, which allows for complex functions not possible for a single cell. Single-celled eukaryotes, conversely, must perform all life functions within their single cell.