Which is (are) true concerning the cell wall of prokaryotes?

• A. It determines the shape of the bacteria.
• B. It is part of the cell envelope.
• C. It prevents the bacteria from bursting.
• D. All of the choices are true.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the structure and function of the prokaryotic cell wall. The cell wall is a rigid layer that provides structural support and shape to the cell.
2. Recognize that the cell wall is part of the cell envelope, which includes the cell membrane and sometimes an outer membrane, depending on the type of bacteria.
3. Learn how the cell wall prevents the bacteria from bursting. It provides resistance to osmotic pressure, which is crucial for maintaining cell integrity in various environments.
4. Consider the role of the cell wall in determining the shape of bacteria. Different types of bacteria have distinct shapes, such as cocci (spherical), bacilli (rod-shaped), and spirilla (spiral-shaped), largely due to the structure of their cell walls.
5. Conclude that all the statements provided are true concerning the cell wall of prokaryotes, as each statement accurately describes a function or characteristic of the cell wall.