Which type of cell is characterized by the presence of a nucleus?

The presence of a nucleus is a defining feature of eukaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are complex cells that contain membrane-bound organelles, including the nucleus, which houses the cell’s genetic material in the form of DNA. This compartmentalization allows for more regulated and efficient processes such as transcription and replication, as the nucleus provides a controlled environment for these activities.

In contrast, prokaryotic cells, which include bacteria and archaea, do not have a defined nucleus. Their genetic material is typically located in a region called the nucleoid, which is not enclosed by a membrane. This fundamental difference is key to distinguishing eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic cells, highlighting the importance of the nucleus in eukaryotic cell structure and function.