Prokaryotic Cell Structure

• What is the function of the cell wall?

  • Physical barrier that excludes certain substances, made of murein
  • Protects against mechanical damage and osmotic lysis
• Capsule

  • Protects bacterium from other cells
  • Helps groups of bacteria to stick together for further protection
• Cell-surface membrane

  • Acts as a differentials permeable layer
  • Controls the entry and exit of chemicals
• Circular DNA

  • Posseses the genetic information for the replication of bacterial cells
• Plasmid

  • Possesses genes that may aid in the survival of bacteria in adverse conditions
  • e.g. produces enzymes that break down antibiotics
• Flagellum 


  Used for locomotion
• Label the structures found in a prokaryotic cell.

  A) Flagellum

  B) Cell wall

  C) Circular DNA

  D) Pili