What is the general method of cellular division in prokaryotes?

The general method of cellular division in prokaryotes is binary fission. This process is a simple and efficient means of reproduction that allows prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, to rapidly duplicate themselves in favorable conditions. During binary fission, the cell's DNA is replicated, and the cell grows in size before the cell membrane pinches inward to divide the cell into two genetically identical daughter cells.

This method of cell division is distinct from mitosis and meiosis, which are processes involved in eukaryotic cell division. Mitosis includes complex stages like prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase, and is used for growth and repair in multicellular organisms. Meiosis, on the other hand, involves two rounds of division and is specifically for the production of gametes with half the number of chromosomes, which is essential for sexual reproduction.

The term "cell division" could refer to various processes across different life forms, including binary fission, mitosis, and meiosis, but specifically implies binary fission when discussing prokaryotic organisms. This clarity in terminology reinforces why binary fission is the accepted answer regarding prokaryotic cellular division.