The key difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes is that the prokaryotic ribosomes are 70S particles composed of 50S large subunit and 30S small subunit while the eukaryotic ribosomes are 80S particles composed of 60S large subunit and a 40S small subunit.
Prokaryotes and eukaryotes are two major groups of living organisms that differ from the cellular organization. Prokaryotes do not possess a nucleus and membrane-bound cell organelles. On the other hand, eukaryotes possess a nucleus and membrane-bound cell organelles. There are some organelles common to both organisms. The ribosome is one of the important and vital organelles present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They are present in the cytoplasm of each cell. Structurally, protein and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) together make up ribosomes. And they consist of two subunits namely larger subunit and a small subunit. Also, they carry out the same function that is the translation of mRNA molecules into proteins. Since translation is a vital process for all living organisms and it occurs in the ribosomes, ribosomes are very important for both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Despite having many similarities, there are some differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes.
