Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

They possess complex internal membrane-bound organelles.

Question 2

The glycocalyx in prokaryotes serves which primary function?

Accepted Answer

It protects cells from desiccation and helps them adhere to surfaces.

Question 3

Which structure is primarily responsible for bacterial movement?

Accepted Answer

Flagella

Question 4

A bacterium moves toward a nutrient source. This behavior is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Positive chemotaxis

Question 5

Which arrangement of flagella would be described as a single flagellum at one end of the cell?

Accepted Answer

Monotrichous

Question 6

Fimbriae differ from flagella in that fimbriae:

Accepted Answer

Are usually shorter and more numerous

Question 7

Which component is unique to Gram-negative bacterial cell walls?

Accepted Answer

Outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)

Question 8

What is the main function of peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls?

Accepted Answer

Providing structural strength and shape

Question 9

During Gram staining, Gram-positive cells appear purple because:

Accepted Answer

Their thick peptidoglycan layer retains the crystal violet dye.

Question 10

Which of the following statements about the prokaryotic cell membrane is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins.

Question 11

Passive transport across the prokaryotic cell membrane:

Accepted Answer

Occurs without the use of cellular energy.

Question 12

Which equation best describes the movement of molecules by simple diffusion?

Accepted Answer

$J = -D \frac{dC}{dx}$

Question 13

Active transport in prokaryotic cells:

Accepted Answer

Requires carrier proteins and energy (ATP).

Question 14

Which of the following antibiotics targets peptidoglycan synthesis?

Accepted Answer

Penicillin

Question 15

A bacterium with a thick peptidoglycan layer and no outer membrane is most likely:

Accepted Answer

Gram-positive

Question 16

Which structure allows for the transfer of DNA between bacterial cells?

Accepted Answer

Pili

Question 17

The fluid mosaic model describes the cell membrane as:

Accepted Answer

A dynamic bilayer of phospholipids with proteins embedded and moving within it.

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why Gram-negative bacteria are generally more resistant to antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

They possess an outer membrane that restricts drug entry.

Question 19

Which of the following is a function of the prokaryotic cell wall?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining cell shape and protecting against osmotic pressure

Question 20

A bacterium is observed to have multiple flagella located all over its surface. This arrangement is called:

Accepted Answer

Peritrichous

Structure and Function of Prokaryotic Cells

Study Guide - Practice Questions