Which of the following processes do prokaryotic cells predominantly rely on for replication?

Prokaryotic cells predominantly rely on binary fission for replication. This process is relatively simple compared to mitosis and meiosis, which are mechanisms associated with eukaryotic cells. In binary fission, the single circular chromosome in a prokaryotic cell is copied, and the cell grows in size, eventually dividing into two genetically identical daughter cells.

Binary fission is a quick and efficient method of reproduction, allowing prokaryotic organisms, such as bacteria, to multiply rapidly under favorable conditions. The simplicity of binary fission reflects the less complex structure of prokaryotic cells, which lack membrane-bound organelles and a defined nucleus.

In contrast, processes like mitosis and meiosis involve more complex mechanisms that include the alignment and segregation of chromosomes and are designed for the maintenance of ploidy in eukaryotic cells, which have multiple chromosomes. Cloning typically refers to a method used in advanced genetic manipulation rather than a natural process of replication observed in prokaryotic organisms. Hence, binary fission is the correct and predominant method for prokaryotic cell replication.