Question

Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic flagella differ in
A) Type of movement and position
B) Microtubular organization and function
C) Location and mode of functioning
D) Microtubular organization and type of movement

Answer 1

Hint: Flagella are hair – like outgrowths of the cell membrane. Flagella resembles cilia but flagella are comparatively longer. Prokaryotic cells and Eukaryotic cells possess flagella but these are structurally different from eukaryotic flagella. Both cell’s flagella differ in microtubule organization and type of movement.

Complete Answer:
A) Type of movement and position – Prokaryotic flagella show rotatory movement, whereas the eukaryotic flagella show lashing movement. The movement of prokaryotic flagella is proton-driven whereas eukaryotic flagella’s movement is ATP driven. Type of movement in both is different but the function of both is the same as flagella helps in locomotion.
B) Microtubular organization and function – Microtubule organization in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is different. In prokaryotes, it is (9+0) and it is simple. In eukaryotes this organization is 9+2. But both have the same function as the locomotory function.
C) Location and mode of functioning – Both are located on the cell membrane. Eukaryotic flagella are attached to the cell at the cell membrane by basal bodies. Prokaryotic flagella are located outside of the plasma membrane. Again the functioning of flagella is the same.
D) Microtubular organization and type of movement – Microtubular organization of flagella in Eukaryotes is 9+2 and in prokaryotes it is (9+0). Also in both movement is also different i.e. Prokaryotes have rotatory movement and eukaryotic flagella show bending movement.

The correct option is D. Microtubular organization and type of movement.

Note: Flagella are long, whip-like projection or appendages of cells used in locomotion. Flagella are made up of microtubules.