Which of the following best describes prokaryotic cells?

Prokaryotic cells are best described by the characteristics outlined in the correct choice. They are generally smaller in size compared to eukaryotic cells, typically around 0.1 to 5.0 micrometers in diameter. One of the defining features of prokaryotic cells is the structure of their DNA; it is circular and located in a region called the nucleoid, rather than being enclosed within a nucleus. Additionally, prokaryotic cells do not possess membrane-bound organelles, which are specialized structures found within eukaryotic cells, such as a nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum.

These distinguishing traits of prokaryotic cells, including their smaller size, circular DNA, and absence of complex organelles, set them apart from eukaryotic cells, which are larger, contain linear DNA, and have a more intricate internal structure with multiple chromosomes. Similarly, the assertion that prokaryotic cells contain a cytoplasm and are always multicellular is inaccurate; prokaryotic organisms, such as bacteria, are typically unicellular.