Prokaryotic Cell Structure

Start with structures and functions

The resources on this page look at prokaryotic cells from several angles. A useful starting point is the flashcard deck on bacterial form and function. Its questions cover structures found in bacteria, features shared by bacteria and archaea, and the material in bacterial cell walls.

For a visual view, open the Bacteria; structure and function mind map. It introduces the cytoplasmic membrane as a phospholipid bilayer and shows its role as a permeability barrier between the inside and outside of the cell.

Explore the cell in more detail

After the membrane, use the mind map on internal prokaryotic structure to look at the cytoplasm, plasmids, ribosomes and nuclear area. The map also identifies ribosomes as the site of protein synthesis.

The Bacterial form and function flashcards offer another route through bacterial cell envelopes and peptidoglycan. A separate deck on prokaryotic cell shapes asks about cell size and membrane function. Together, these resources give you questions and visual material to work through as you study.

Combine maps and quizzes

Start with a map to organize the structures you want to study. Then use the Prokaryotes quiz to check your understanding. Return to the map and flashcards afterward, paying attention to any structures or functions you want to look at again. The page also lists a General Microbiology module quiz as another option.

Use the topic within its unit

Prokaryotic Cell Structure is a section of Microbial Cell Structure, Diversity and Classification in Microbiology and immunology. The maps, flashcards and notes here give you ways to focus on cell structures within that unit. Choose a map and a quiz to use together as you work through the topic.