Which one of the following is an organelle that is NOT found in prokaryotic cells ?

Prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, are characterized by their lack of a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles [3]. While all cells share fundamental features such as a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes for protein synthesis, prokaryotes do not possess complex internal structures like mitochondria, chloroplasts, or the endoplasmic reticulum [2]. Mitochondria are specific to eukaryotic cells and are believed to have evolved through endosymbiosis, where a prokaryotic host incorporated another prokaryotic cell. In contrast, most prokaryotes possess a cell wall for structural support and protection [3]. Therefore, while ribosomes, plasma membranes, and cell walls are commonly found in prokaryotic organisms, mitochondria are exclusively found in eukaryotes to compartmentalize energy production [3].

Sources

1. [2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/prokaryotic-cell
2. [3] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 2: The Invisible Living World: Beyond Our Naked Eye > 2.5 Why Is Cell Considered to Be a Basic Unit of Life? > p. 24