Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between anabolic and catabolic reactions in microbial metabolism?

Accepted Answer

Anabolic reactions build complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy; catabolic reactions break down complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy.

Question 2

When comparing the catabolism of glucose and lipids, which produces more ATP and why?

Accepted Answer

Lipids produce more ATP because they have more carbon-hydrogen bonds that can be oxidized.

Question 3

In an ATP molecule, where is the majority of the usable energy stored?

Accepted Answer

In the bonds between the phosphate groups, especially the terminal phosphate bond

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the process of phosphorylation in the ATP-ADP cycle?

Accepted Answer

The addition of a phosphate group to ADP to form ATP

Question 5

Which statement correctly distinguishes between a cofactor and a coenzyme?

Accepted Answer

A cofactor is a non-protein helper that can be either inorganic or organic, while a coenzyme is specifically an organic molecule.

Question 6

Which of the following is the reduced form of NAD$$^+$$?

Accepted Answer

NADH

Question 7

During glycolysis, how many net ATP molecules are produced from one molecule of glucose, and why is this the net yield?

Accepted Answer

2 net ATP, because 4 are produced but 2 are used in the initial steps

Question 8

Which phosphorylation mechanism is responsible for ATP production during glycolysis?

Accepted Answer

Substrate-level phosphorylation

Question 9

In prokaryotes, where does the electron transport chain (ETC) occur?

Accepted Answer

In the plasma (cell) membrane

Question 10

What is the final electron acceptor in aerobic respiration, and what molecule is formed after it is reduced?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen; water ($$\mathrm{H_2O})$$

Question 11

Which step of cellular respiration produces the most ATP?

Accepted Answer

Electron transport chain and chemiosmosis

Question 12

A patient’s bacterial isolate is tested with hydrogen peroxide and bubbles are observed. What enzyme is present, and what is the reaction?

Accepted Answer

Catalase; $$2\mathrm{H_2O_2} \rightarrow 2\mathrm{H_2O} + \mathrm{O_2$}$$

Question 13

Which of the following best describes chemiosmosis in the context of cellular respiration?

Accepted Answer

The movement of protons down their concentration gradient through ATP synthase to generate ATP

Question 14

Which of the following is a major end product of homolactic fermentation?

Accepted Answer

Lactic acid

Question 15

What is the function of the enzyme lipase in microbial metabolism?

Accepted Answer

To break down triglycerides into glycerol and fatty acids

Question 16

Which process is responsible for producing the pyruvic acid used in fermentation pathways?

Accepted Answer

Glycolysis

Question 17

Which of the following best defines gluconeogenesis?

Accepted Answer

The synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors

Question 18

A bacterium is classified as a chemotroph. Which process does it primarily use to produce ATP?

Accepted Answer

Oxidative phosphorylation and substrate-level phosphorylation

Question 19

Why is a pH indicator used in growth media for fermentation testing?

Accepted Answer

To detect changes in pH caused by acid production during fermentation

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the difference between an apoenzyme and a holoenzyme?

Accepted Answer

An apoenzyme is the protein portion of an enzyme without its cofactor or coenzyme; a holoenzyme is the complete, active enzyme with its cofactor or coenzyme bound.

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