Question 1

Which of the following statements best describes the main difference between bacterial and archaeal cell membranes?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial membranes are composed of fatty acids linked to glycerol by ester bonds, while archaeal membranes have isoprenoid chains linked by ether bonds.

Question 2

A scientist discovers a prokaryotic cell with a single, circular, supercoiled DNA molecule and several small, circular DNA molecules. What are these small DNA molecules called, and what is their primary function?

Accepted Answer

Plasmids; they often carry genes that provide advantages such as antibiotic resistance.

Question 3

Which structure is responsible for protein synthesis in prokaryotic cells, and what is a key feature of its function?

Accepted Answer

Ribosome; it translates mRNA into polypeptides using tRNA at the E, P, and A sites.

Question 4

A prokaryotic cell is observed to move toward a magnetic field. Which internal structure is most likely responsible for this behavior?

Accepted Answer

Magnetite-containing organelles that act as a compass.

Question 5

Which of the following best explains why prokaryotic chromosomes are often supercoiled?

Accepted Answer

Supercoiling compacts the DNA so it fits inside the cell.

Question 6

A researcher finds a prokaryotic cell with internal compartments surrounded by membranes. Which statement is most accurate about these compartments?

Accepted Answer

They are organelles that can store ions, hold enzymes, or orient the cell using magnetic crystals.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a function of the prokaryotic cell wall?

Accepted Answer

Regulating the passage of molecules into and out of the cell.

Question 8

If a mutation prevents a prokaryotic cell from forming pili, which process would be most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Attachment to surfaces and exchange of genetic material during conjugation.

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the nucleoid region in a prokaryotic cell?

Accepted Answer

It is a region where the cell's circular chromosome is located, not surrounded by a membrane.

Question 10

A bacterium is found to have a capsule outside its cell wall. What is the most likely function of this capsule?

Accepted Answer

Protecting the cell from desiccation and helping it evade the host immune system.

Question 11

Which of the following is a key evolutionary insight gained from the study of ancient bacterial fossils?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria have existed for at least 3.5 billion years, indicating they are among the earliest forms of life.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why ribosomes are considered similar among prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

They have a similar structure and function, synthesizing proteins by translating mRNA.

Question 13

A prokaryotic cell is observed to have a flagellum. What is the primary function of this structure?

Accepted Answer

Movement of the cell through liquid environments.

Question 14

Which of the following is true regarding the genetic material in most prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

It consists of a single, circular chromosome located in the nucleoid.

Question 15

If a prokaryotic cell lacked ribosomes, which process would be directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Protein synthesis from mRNA templates.

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the function of plasmids in prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They often carry genes that provide selective advantages, such as antibiotic resistance.

Chapter 7: Inside the Cell – Prokaryotic Cell Structure and Function

Guida di studio - Domande di pratica

Study guide - Flashcard