Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of fimbriae in prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Attachment to surfaces and host tissues

Question 2

A researcher observes a prokaryotic cell with a thick, well-defined layer outside the cell wall that is not easily washed off. Which structure is most likely being observed?

Accepted Answer

Capsule

Question 3

Which of the following statements about bacterial flagella is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

They are powered by the proton motive force.

Question 4

Which structure is unique to the SM1 group of Archaea and is characterized by a grappling hook-like end for biofilm attachment?

Accepted Answer

Hami

Question 5

A bacterium moves in a smooth, continuous motion along its long axis without visible external appendages. Which motility mechanism is most likely being used?

Accepted Answer

Gliding motility

Question 6

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the energy source for archaeal flagella (archaella)?

Accepted Answer

They are powered by ATP hydrolysis.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why peritrichously flagellated bacteria move more slowly and in a straight line compared to polarly flagellated bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Their flagella are distributed all over the cell, causing slower, coordinated movement.

Question 8

A scientist is studying a bacterium that can survive extreme heat, radiation, and desiccation. Which structure is most likely responsible for this resistance?

Accepted Answer

Endospore

Question 9

Which of the following is a key chemical component found in bacterial endospores but NOT in vegetative cells?

Accepted Answer

Calcium dipicolinic acid

Question 10

A bacterium is observed to aggregate at specific wavelengths of light that its pigments absorb. This behavior is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Phototaxis

Question 11

Which of the following storage products would you expect to find in a bacterium that stores excess carbon for later use?

Accepted Answer

Poly-β-hydroxyalkanoate (PHA) granules

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the function of carboxysomes in prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Organelle containing RuBisCO for CO$$_2$$ fixation

Question 13

A bacterium is found to contain intracellular particles of magnetic iron oxides. What is the most likely function of these structures?

Accepted Answer

To orient the cell in response to Earth's magnetic field

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in the bacterial endospore life cycle?

Accepted Answer

Vegetative cell → Sporulation → Endospore → Germination

Question 15

Which of the following best explains how chemotaxis allows a bacterium to move toward a favorable environment?

Accepted Answer

By comparing the current environment with the environment sensed moments before

Question 16

Which of the following is TRUE about the biosynthesis of bacterial flagella?

Accepted Answer

Flagellin subunits are transported through a 3 nm channel to the tip of the filament.

Question 17

Which of the following is a distinguishing feature of gliding motility compared to twitching motility in bacteria?

Accepted Answer

Gliding motility involves smooth movement along the cell's long axis without external appendages.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the role of small acid-soluble proteins (SASPs) in bacterial endospores?

Accepted Answer

They protect DNA from damage by heat, chemicals, and radiation.

Question 19

A bacterium is observed to move toward higher concentrations of oxygen. Which type of taxis is this?

Accepted Answer

Aerotaxis

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct statement about the difference between capsules and slime layers?

Accepted Answer

Capsules are tightly bound and not easily washed off, while slime layers are loosely attached and easily sloughed off.

Prokaryotic Cell Surface Structures and Motility Mechanisms

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