Question 1

Which of the following is a unique feature of prokaryotic cells compared to eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Lack of a nucleus

Question 2

The glycocalyx in prokaryotes serves which primary function?

Accepted Answer

Protection against desiccation and aiding in attachment to surfaces

Question 3

Which structure is responsible for motility in prokaryotic cells and often exhibits rotary motion?

Accepted Answer

Flagella

Question 4

A bacterium moves toward a nutrient source. This movement is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Positive chemotaxis

Question 5

Which arrangement of flagella is described as a single flagellum at one end of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Monotrichous

Question 6

Fimbriae differ from flagella in that fimbriae:

Accepted Answer

Are shorter and more numerous, aiding in attachment

Question 7

Which component is found in the cell wall of most prokaryotes and provides structural strength?

Accepted Answer

Peptidoglycan

Question 8

Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet dye during Gram staining because:

Accepted Answer

They have a thick layer of peptidoglycan

Question 9

Which of the following statements about Gram-negative cell walls is correct?

Accepted Answer

They contain an outer membrane with lipopolysaccharides

Question 10

Many antibiotics target peptidoglycan synthesis. Which type of bacteria are generally more susceptible to these antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

Gram-positive bacteria

Question 11

The fluid mosaic model describes the structure of which cellular component?

Accepted Answer

Cell membrane

Question 12

Passive transport across the cell membrane differs from active transport because:

Accepted Answer

Passive transport moves substances down their concentration gradient without energy input

Question 13

Which equation best represents the movement of molecules during simple diffusion?

Accepted Answer

$J = -D \frac{dC}{dx}$

Question 14

Active transport in prokaryotic membranes requires which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Carrier proteins and energy input (ATP)

Question 15

A bacterium is placed in a hypertonic solution. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Water will leave the cell, causing plasmolysis

Question 16

Which structure allows for the transfer of DNA between prokaryotic cells during conjugation?

Accepted Answer

Pili

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the cell membrane in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Controls passage of substances in and out of the cell

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

Controlling passage of substances in and out of the cell

Question 19

Which of the following statements about the arrangement of flagella is correct?

Accepted Answer

Lophotrichous bacteria have a tuft of flagella at one end

Question 20

A scientist observes a bacterium with a thick peptidoglycan layer and no outer membrane. What color would this bacterium appear after Gram staining?

Accepted Answer

Purple

Cell Structure and Function in Prokaryotes: Study Notes for Microbiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions