10 Differences between Prokaryotic DNA and Eukaryotic DNA

LocationIt is found freely in the central portion of the cytoplasm.It is found within the nucleus.
SizeThe size of DNA in a prokaryote is usually less than 0.1 pg.The size of DNA in eukaryotes is high, usually more than 1 pg.
ChromosomeThese do not form chromosomes.They form chromosomes in the nucleus.
Number of ChromosomesThe prokaryotic DNA is organized into a single chromosome.The eukaryotic DNA is organized into many chromosomes.
OccurrenceIs found occurring as a closed covalent circular form of DNA.Occurs as a linear form of DNA with two ends.
IntronsIntrons are absent in the coding region of prokaryotic DNA.Introns are present in the coding region of eukaryotic DNA.
NucleosomeThere is no formation of nucleosomes in prokaryotic DNA.Nucleosomes are formed in the DNA of eukaryotic cells.
GenomesThe genome of prokaryotes is too small and contains a few genes ranging from several kb to MB in size.The eukaryotic genome is usually larger contains a few thousand genes (~21,000 genes in humans) and is made up of billions of base pairs.
Quantity of the DNAThe quantity of the DNA is less as compared to that in eukaryotes.The quantity of the DNA is more.
DNA ReplicationDNA Replication occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.DNA Replication is found occurring in the nucleus of the cell.
TransposonsThe prokaryotic DNA does not consist of transposons.The eukaryotic DNA consists of transposons.
Histone ProteinsThis DNA does not interact or associate with histone proteins.They interact with histone proteins.
Plasmid DNAProkaryotes possess a smaller, circular, single-stranded DNA, known as the plasmid DNA.Eukaryotes do not possess plasmid DNA.