Which of the following statements is INCORRECT regarding prokaryotic cells?
1: They typically have a circular chromosome.
2: They lack a plasma membrane.
3: Their DNA is not enclosed within a membrane.
4: They reproduce by binary fission.
5: They lack membrane-enclosed organelles.
Answer: 2: They lack a plasma membrane.
In the above statement is the incorrect statement regarding prokaryotic cells. Bacterial and archaeal cells, the bane of the prokaryotic kingdom, are usually membrane-bound or possess cell membrane, respectively. This membrane carries the function of a barrier that is selectively permeable separates the cytoplasm and the external environment and, in such way, it controls the movement of substances into and out of the cellular environment. There would be no cell membrane, which would cause death and inefficiency. The action would be similar to removing walls from a house.