Question 1

Which of the following statements best explains why bacteriophages do not infect human cells?

Accepted Answer

Bacteriophages are unable to recognize and bind to the specific proteins and carbohydrates on human cell surfaces.

Question 2

A virus uses reverse transcriptase to convert its viral RNA into DNA and insert it into the host genome. Which type of virus is this?

Accepted Answer

Retrovirus

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Contain membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria

Question 4

If a bacterial population doubles every 20 minutes, how many times will it double in 2 hours?

Accepted Answer

6 times

Question 5

Which equation correctly represents the number of bacteria $$N$$ after $$n$$ doublings, starting from an initial population $$N_0$$?

Accepted Answer

$$N = N_0$ 	imes 2^n$$

Question 6

Which of the following is a beneficial role of bacteria in the human body?

Accepted Answer

They extract otherwise inaccessible calories and nutrients.

Question 7

A patient develops bacterial gangrene after a wound. What is the primary mechanism by which the bacteria cause tissue damage?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria produce enzymes that dissolve connections between muscle cells and then digest the cells.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about viruses is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Viruses consist of a protein coat and genetic material, but lack organelles.

Question 9

What percentage of human DNA is estimated to be derived from ancient viral infections?

Accepted Answer

5-8%

Question 10

Which of the following is NOT a way bacteria introduce genetic diversity?

Accepted Answer

Sexual reproduction

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct statement about pathogenic bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Pathogenic bacteria often produce destructive enzymes or toxins to help them spread through tissues.

Question 12

Which of the following is a special type of virus that infects bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Bacteriophage

Question 13

Which of the following organisms is a single-celled prokaryote?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria

Question 14

Which of the following is TRUE about the use of viruses in medicine?

Accepted Answer

Viruses are used to defeat bacterial infections by infecting and killing specific bacteria.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct description of prions?

Accepted Answer

Infectious proteins that cause proteins to misfold

Question 16

Which of the following is NOT a eukaryote?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria

Question 17

Which of the following is a reason why most bacteria are not harmful to humans?

Accepted Answer

The vast majority of bacteria are not pathogenic and can be beneficial.

Question 18

Which process allows bacteria to extract energy from organic molecules?

Accepted Answer

Consumption and breakdown of organic molecules

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct statement about viral replication?

Accepted Answer

Viruses force the host cell to make and assemble new virions.

Question 20

Which of the following is a real-world example of a pathogenic virus?

Accepted Answer

HIV

Viruses and Bacteria: Infectious Agents, Diversity, and Pathogenicity

Study Guide - Practice Questions