Question 1

Which of the following statements best distinguishes prokaryotic cells from eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus surrounded by a nuclear envelope, whereas prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus.

Question 2

Which scientist is credited with disproving the theory of spontaneous generation through his swan-neck flask experiment?

Accepted Answer

Louis Pasteur

Question 3

A microbiologist is using a microscope to measure the diameter of a bacterial cell. If the field of view is $$2.0\ \mathrm{mm}$$ and the cell occupies $$1/10 of $$the field, what is the diameter of the cell in micrometers ($$\mu\mathrm{m}$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$200\ \mu\mathrm{m}$$

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT one of the three domains in the current classification system of organisms?

Accepted Answer

Protista

Question 5

A solution has a hydrogen ion concentration of $$[H^+] = 1 	imes 10$$^{-5}$$\ \mathrm{M}. $$What is the pH of this solution?

Accepted Answer

$$5$$

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of buffers in living organisms?

Accepted Answer

Buffers maintain a stable pH by neutralizing excess acids or bases.

Question 7

Given the following redox reaction: $$\mathrm{Cu}^{2+} + \mathrm{Zn} \rightarrow \mathrm{Cu} + \mathrm{Zn}^{2+}$$, which element is oxidized?

Accepted Answer

Zinc ($$\mathrm{Zn})$$

Question 8

Which of the following is a correct statement about water's physical properties and their importance to living things?

Accepted Answer

Water's high specific heat helps organisms maintain stable internal temperatures.

Question 9

A scientist is preparing a serial dilution. If she starts with $$1\ \mathrm{mL} of a$$ $$10^6$$ cells/mL culture and adds it to $$9\ \mathrm{mL} of $$sterile broth, then repeats this process two more times, what is the final concentration of cells per mL?

Accepted Answer

$$10^3$$ cells/mL

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

Accepted Answer

Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons.

Question 11

Which of the following is a property of acids in aqueous solution?

Accepted Answer

They have a pH less than 7.

Question 12

Which of the following best describes a virus?

Accepted Answer

A virus is a non-cellular entity that requires a host cell to replicate.

Question 13

Which of the following scientists is known for developing a set of postulates to establish a causative relationship between a microbe and a disease?

Accepted Answer

Robert Koch

Question 14

Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for a neutral oxygen atom ($$Z=8$$)?

Accepted Answer

$$1s^2$$\ $$2s^2$$\ $$2p^4$$

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why water is an excellent solvent for ionic compounds?

Accepted Answer

Water molecules are polar and can surround and separate ions.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct statement about isotopes?

Accepted Answer

Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of Francesco Redi in the history of microbiology?

Accepted Answer

He demonstrated that maggots do not arise spontaneously from decaying meat.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct classification for an organism that lacks a nucleus and is unicellular?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryote

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the relationship between pH and $$[H^+]$$ concentration?

Accepted Answer

$$\mathrm{pH} = -\log_{10}[H^+]$$

Question 20

A student is given a chemical reaction and asked to identify the oxidizing agent. Which of the following is the best approach?

Accepted Answer

Identify the substance that is reduced, as it gains electrons.

Microbiology Study Guide: Key Concepts and Objectives for Exam 1

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards