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A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure

Prokaryotic cells organize metabolism and heredity without a nucleus, using a membrane-bounded cytoplasm containing 70S ribosomes, circular DNA, and specialized surface structures.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
A2.2.5
Level
SL

Exam analysis

Chance of appearing25%of analysed past papers
Latest appearanceMay 2025
Most common paperPaper1
Typical marks1–3

Common command terms

  • Identify
  • Compare
  • Label
  • Outline
  • State
  • Draw
  • Distinguish
  • Annotate

Scoring notes

Common mistake
Assigning a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles to a prokaryotic cell.

Recent exam appearances

May 2025Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ23(c)[ 1 ]A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure
November 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ22[ 1 ]A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure
May 2024Paper1 ["SL"] · TZ15[ 1 ]A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure
May 2024Paper2 ["SL"] · TZ23(b)(i)[ 2 ]A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure
May 2024Paper3 ["SL"] · TZ12[ 3 ]A2.2.5—Prokaryote cell structure
Practice this objective

Coverage 2010–2025 · Updated 15 Jul 2026

Concept essentials

  • Prokaryotic DNA occupies a nucleoid rather than a membrane-bounded nucleus.
  • Bacterial cytoplasm contains 70S ribosomes.
  • The main chromosome is commonly circular and plasmids may carry additional genes.
  • A peptidoglycan wall supports and protects most bacterial cells.
ConceptIB Biology SL