What is a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are characterized by their simpler structure compared to eukaryotic cells. One of the defining features of prokaryotic cells is that they lack membrane-bound organelles. This means that their cellular processes occur in the cytoplasm rather than in specialized compartments enclosed by membranes. Prokaryotes, such as bacteria and archaea, do not have a nucleus; instead, their genetic material is typically found in a single circular chromosome that is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane. The absence of membrane-bound organelles allows prokaryotic cells to reproduce more quickly, as they can carry out their life processes in a more direct manner without needing the complex organization seen in eukaryotic cells.