Life: The Science of Biology 11th Edition

Published by W. H. Freeman
ISBN 10: 1-31901-016-4
ISBN 13: 978-1-31901-016-4

Chapter 5 - Cells: The Working Units of Life - 5.5 - Euaryotic Cells Evolved in Several Steps - 5.5 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 107: 1

Answer

In cell images, the internal membranes of prokaryotes sometimes appear to be inward folds of the membrane. This suggests that the endomembrane system and the nucleus of modern eukaryotic cells originated by a similar processes known as endosymbiosis, where a prokaryotic cell is engulfed and lives symbiotically within the larger cell. This relationship benefits both cells, as the engulfed prokaryote provided organic compounds for metabolism in exchange for a sheltered environment.

Work Step by Step

In cell images, the internal membranes of prokaryotes sometimes appear to be inward folds of the membrane. This suggests that the endomembrane system and the nucleus of modern eukaryotic cells originated by a similar processes known as endosymbiosis, where a prokaryotic cell is engulfed and lives symbiotically within the larger cell. This relationship benefits both cells, as the engulfed prokaryote provided organic compounds for metabolism in exchange for a sheltered environment.
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