Question 1

Which of the following structures is unique to prokaryotic cells and is primarily responsible for survival under extreme environmental conditions such as heat, desiccation, and exposure to disinfectants?

Accepted Answer

Endospore

Question 2

A scientist observes a microorganism with a single, circular chromosome, no membrane-bound organelles, and a cell wall containing peptidoglycan. Which type of organism is being observed?

Accepted Answer

Bacterium

Question 3

Which of the following statements best describes the difference in DNA organization between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic DNA is circular and not associated with histones, while eukaryotic DNA is linear and wrapped around histones.

Question 4

Which of the following is a function of the cell membrane in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining energy gradients across the membrane

Question 5

A bacterial cell is placed in a hypertonic solution. What is the most likely outcome for the cell?

Accepted Answer

Water will leave the cell, causing plasmolysis.

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why biofilms are problematic in medical and industrial settings?

Accepted Answer

Biofilms provide resistance to antibiotics and disinfectants.

Question 7

Which chemical is used by bacteria to maintain membrane fluidity, and what is the equivalent in eukaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Hopanoids in bacteria; cholesterol in eukaryotes

Question 8

Which of the following transport mechanisms requires energy input in the form of ATP?

Accepted Answer

Active transport

Question 9

A researcher finds a microbe with 80S ribosomes, a nucleus, and microtubules. Which type of organism is this most likely to be?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryote

Question 10

Which of the following cell wall components is unique to bacterial cells?

Accepted Answer

Peptidoglycan

Question 11

Which structure allows prokaryotic cells to attach to surfaces and is critical for biofilm formation?

Accepted Answer

Fimbriae

Question 12

Which of the following statements about ribosomes is correct?

Accepted Answer

Prokaryotic ribosomes are 70S, while eukaryotic ribosomes are 80S.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

They provide extra genetic features, such as antibiotic resistance.

Question 14

Which of the following is a unique feature of eukaryotic flagella compared to prokaryotic flagella?

Accepted Answer

Eukaryotic flagella are composed of microtubules and move in a wave-like motion.

Question 15

Which of the following best explains why Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms are particularly dangerous for cystic fibrosis patients?

Accepted Answer

Biofilms protect the bacteria from antibiotics, leading to persistent lung infections.

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of inclusion bodies in prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Storage of materials such as nutrients or magnetic particles

Question 17

Which of the following cell wall components is found in fungal cells?

Accepted Answer

Chitin

Question 18

Which of the following processes is used by eukaryotic cells, but not prokaryotic cells, to import large molecules?

Accepted Answer

Endocytosis

Question 19

A scientist is studying a microbe that uses ether linkages in its cell membrane phospholipids. To which domain does this organism most likely belong?

Accepted Answer

Archaea

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the role of quorum sensing in biofilm formation?

Accepted Answer

It allows bacteria to communicate and coordinate group behaviors such as biofilm formation.

Structural Features of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Microorganisms

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards