Question 1

Which of the following best explains why small prokaryotic cells have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio compared to larger cells?

Accepted Answer

Because their volume increases more rapidly than their surface area as size increases.

Question 2

A bacterium is observed to form chains of rod-shaped cells. What is the most accurate term for this arrangement?

Accepted Answer

Streptobacillus

Question 3

Which component of the Gram-negative bacterial cell wall is responsible for its toxicity and ability to evade host immune responses?

Accepted Answer

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)

Question 4

What is the main function of the bacterial cell wall?

Accepted Answer

To provide structural strength and prevent osmotic lysis

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the chemical structure of peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls?

Accepted Answer

A polymer of N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylmuramic acid cross-linked by peptide bridges

Question 6

Which equation correctly represents the surface area of a spherical prokaryotic cell with radius $r$?

Accepted Answer

$4\pi r^2$

Question 7

A Gram-positive bacterium is treated with lysozyme. What is the expected effect?

Accepted Answer

The cell wall will be degraded, leading to osmotic lysis.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane?

Accepted Answer

Protein synthesis

Question 9

Which structure is responsible for the motility of spirochetes?

Accepted Answer

Periplasmic flagella (axial filaments)

Question 10

A bacterium is found to have a thick peptidoglycan layer, teichoic acids, and no outer membrane. What is its Gram reaction and color after Gram staining?

Accepted Answer

Gram-positive, purple

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the function of inclusion bodies in prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They store nutrients and reduce osmotic stress.

Question 12

Which of the following is a correct description of group translocation in bacterial cells?

Accepted Answer

A process where a solute is chemically modified during transport across the membrane

Question 13

Which of the following statements about plasmids is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that replicate independently of the chromosome.

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of the S-layer in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Providing osmotic protection and cell surface interactions

Question 15

Which of the following is TRUE regarding bacterial endospores?

Accepted Answer

They are resistant to heat, radiation, and desiccation due to their thick protein coat and dehydrated core.

Question 16

Which equation correctly represents the volume of a spherical prokaryotic cell with radius $r$?

Accepted Answer

$\frac{4}{3}\pi r^3$

Question 17

A bacterium is observed to move toward a source of glucose. What type of movement is this?

Accepted Answer

Chemotaxis

Question 18

Which of the following statements about Gram-negative cell walls is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

They have an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharide and a thin peptidoglycan layer.

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of bacterial capsules?

Accepted Answer

They protect against phagocytosis and desiccation.

Question 20

Which of the following is TRUE about bacterial flagella?

Accepted Answer

They are composed of flagellin and rotate to propel the cell.

Structure and Function of Prokaryotic Cells: Microbiology Study Notes

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