Which cellular structure was likely present in the earliest prokaryotic-like cells? Flagella Nucleus Membrane-bound organelles Mitochondria

## Step 1<br />The question asks us to identify which cellular structure was likely present in the earliest prokaryotic-like cells. Prokaryotic cells are characterized by the absence of a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />We can eliminate the options of nucleus, membrane-bound organelles, and mitochondria because these structures are not found in prokaryotic cells.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The only remaining option is flagella. Flagella are whip-like structures that protrude from the cell body and are used for locomotion. They are found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Therefore, the most likely cellular structure present in the earliest prokaryotic-like cells would be flagella.