Which of the following best describes the function of the bacterial cell wall as seen in a photomicrograph?

• A. It facilitates the movement of the cell using flagella.
• B. It provides structural support and protects the cell from osmotic lysis.
• C. It is responsible for the synthesis of ATP during cellular respiration.
• D. It stores genetic information in the form of DNA.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the main components and functions of the bacterial cell wall. The bacterial cell wall is primarily composed of peptidoglycan, which provides rigidity and strength.
2. Understand the role of the bacterial cell wall in maintaining cell shape and protecting the cell from environmental stresses, especially osmotic pressure.
3. Recognize that the bacterial cell wall does not facilitate movement; that function is performed by structures like flagella, which are separate from the cell wall.
4. Recall that ATP synthesis occurs in the cell membrane (in bacteria) or mitochondria (in eukaryotes), not in the cell wall.
5. Note that genetic information is stored in the cytoplasm of bacteria as DNA, not in the cell wall.