$$\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6$} + 6\mathrm{O_2$} \rightarrow 6\mathrm{CO_2$} + 6\mathrm{H_2O} + \text{energy}$$

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of ATP in cellular metabolism?

Accepted Answer

ATP functions as the primary energy currency, transferring energy between catabolic and anabolic reactions.

Question 2

A patient is infected with a bacterium that thrives at 10°C. Which group does this bacterium most likely belong to?

Accepted Answer

Psychrophiles

Question 3

Which of the following statements about glycolysis is correct?

Accepted Answer

Glycolysis produces ATP and NADH by breaking down glucose into pyruvate.

Question 4

During aerobic respiration, most ATP is generated by which process?

Accepted Answer

Chemiosmosis via the electron transport chain

Question 5

Which equation correctly represents the oxidation of glucose during aerobic respiration?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6$} + 6\mathrm{O_2$} ightarrow 6\mathrm{CO_2$} + 6\mathrm{H_2O} + 	ext{energy}$$

Question 6

Which factor does NOT directly influence enzymatic activity?

Accepted Answer

Presence of ribosomes

Question 7

A microbiologist wants to grow a fastidious bacterium that requires specific nutrients. Which type of media should she use?

Accepted Answer

Chemically defined media

Question 8

Which term describes the process of removing microbes from a limited area, such as skin before an injection?

Accepted Answer

Degerming

Question 9

A hospital uses autoclaving to sterilize surgical instruments. What is the main mechanism by which autoclaving kills microbes?

Accepted Answer

Protein denaturation by moist heat under pressure

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why biofilms are difficult to eradicate in medical settings?

Accepted Answer

Biofilms are resistant to antibiotics and disinfectants due to their protective matrix.

Question 11

Which phase of microbial growth is characterized by rapid cell division and exponential increase in population?

Accepted Answer

Log (exponential) phase

Question 12

A culture medium is buffered to maintain a pH of 7. Why is this important for microbial growth?

Accepted Answer

It ensures that enzymes function optimally and prevents denaturation.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct description of binary fission?

Accepted Answer

A process where a cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

Question 14

Which microbial control method is most effective for sterilizing heat-sensitive medical equipment?

Accepted Answer

Chemical sterilizers such as ethylene oxide

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a product of fermentation?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 16

Which term refers to the inhibition of bacterial growth without killing the bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Bacteriostasis

Question 17

A scientist observes a visible mass of microbial cells on an agar plate. What is this called?

Accepted Answer

Colony

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the relationship between catabolism and anabolism?

Accepted Answer

Catabolism releases energy by breaking down molecules, anabolism uses energy to build molecules.

Question 19

Which of the following is a plausible reason why dry heat is less effective than moist heat for sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Moist heat denatures proteins more efficiently due to better heat transfer.

Question 20

A microbe is classified as a thermophile. Which temperature range would you expect it to grow best in?

Accepted Answer

50–70°C

Microbial Metabolism, Growth, and Control: Study Notes for Exam II

Study Guide - Practice Questions