What is the size range of prokaryotes?

The size range of prokaryotes is most accurately described as 0.2-2.0 microns. Prokaryotes, which primarily include bacteria and archaea, are typically much smaller than eukaryotic cells. Their small size is a key characteristic that allows them to have a high surface area-to-volume ratio, facilitating nutrient absorption and cellular processes.

This size range encompasses the vast majority of prokaryotic organisms, as many bacterial cells fall within this dimension. While some prokaryotes may be slightly smaller or larger due to specific adaptations or environmental conditions, the 0.2-2.0 microns measurement encapsulates the general size of these microorganisms effectively.

Options that suggest either a smaller or larger size range do not reflect the typical morphology observed in prokaryotes. The answer provides a foundational understanding relevant to microbiology, particularly when discussing the diversity and structural characteristics of microbial life.