Microbiology Exam 1 Study Guide – Step-by-Step Guidance

Q1. What is a microbe?

Background

Topic: Introduction to Microbiology

This question is testing your understanding of the basic definition of a microbe and the types of organisms that fall under this category.

Key Terms:

• Microbe: A general term for microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses.

• Microscopic: Too small to be seen with the naked eye.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall that microbiology is the study of organisms that are too small to be seen without magnification.

2. Think about the different types of organisms that are considered microbes (e.g., bacteria, archaea, some fungi, protozoa, algae, and viruses).

3. Consider the characteristics that these organisms share, such as their size and the environments in which they are found.

Try answering in your own words before checking the answer!

Q2. Distinguish between prokaryote and eukaryote.

Background

Topic: Cell Structure and Classification

This question tests your ability to compare and contrast the two major types of cellular organization found in living organisms.

Key Terms:

• Prokaryote: Organisms whose cells lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., bacteria and archaea).

• Eukaryote: Organisms whose cells have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles (e.g., plants, animals, fungi, protists).

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall the defining features of prokaryotic cells (e.g., lack of nucleus, generally smaller, simpler structure).

2. Recall the defining features of eukaryotic cells (e.g., presence of nucleus, larger size, complex organelles).

3. Think about examples of each type and how their cellular structures differ.

Try to list at least two differences before checking the answer!

Q3. What is the 3-Domain system of classification?

Background

Topic: Taxonomy and Evolutionary Relationships

This question is about the modern system used to classify all life forms based on evolutionary relationships.

Key Terms:

• Domain: The highest taxonomic rank in the classification of organisms.

• 3-Domain System: A classification system that divides life into Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall why the 3-domain system was developed (to reflect evolutionary relationships based on genetic data).

2. Identify the three domains and the types of organisms found in each.

3. Think about the main differences between these domains (e.g., cell structure, genetic makeup).

Try to name the three domains and one characteristic of each before checking the answer!

Q4. What are three main groups of Archaea and in what environments are they likely to be found?

Background

Topic: Archaea Diversity and Ecology

This question tests your knowledge of the diversity within the Archaea domain and their ecological niches.

Key Terms:

• Archaea: A domain of single-celled microorganisms distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes.

• Extremophiles: Organisms that thrive in extreme environments.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall the three main groups of Archaea (e.g., methanogens, halophiles, thermophiles).

2. Think about the types of environments each group is adapted to (e.g., high salt, high temperature, anaerobic conditions).

3. Consider examples of where you might find each group in nature.

Try to match each group to its environment before checking the answer!

Q5. Explain the basics of the binomial naming system (Genus species) and how names are selected.

Background

Topic: Scientific Nomenclature

This question is about the system used to give organisms their scientific names and the rules for naming.

Key Terms:

• Binomial Nomenclature: A two-part scientific naming system for organisms, using Genus and species.

• Genus: The first part of the name, always capitalized.

• Species: The second part, not capitalized.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall the format for writing scientific names (Genus species, italicized or underlined).

2. Think about the rules for selecting names (e.g., based on characteristics, discoverer, or location).

3. Consider why this system is important for scientific communication.

Try to write an example of a scientific name before checking the answer!