How does prokaryotic photosynthesis differ from eukaryotic photosynthesis?

Prokaryotic photosynthesis primarily takes place in the cytoplasm or on thylakoid membranes, unlike eukaryotic photosynthesis, which occurs within organelles called chloroplasts. Prokaryotes, such as cyanobacteria, do not have membrane-bound organelles; instead, their photosynthetic processes take place in these specialized areas of the cell. This distinction is critical for understanding the structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.

While all photosynthesis requires light energy, this characteristic is shared by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, making it not a distinguishing feature. Furthermore, the volume of oxygen produced can vary with the type of organism and conditions, so it does not consistently serve as a reliable point of differentiation between the two.