Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following cell wall components is unique to gram-negative prokaryotic cells?
A
Peptidoglycan
B
Chitin
C
Lipopolysaccharide
D
Teichoic acid
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of gram-negative prokaryotic cells. Gram-negative bacteria have a unique cell wall structure that includes an outer membrane.
Identify the components of the gram-negative cell wall. The outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria contains lipopolysaccharides, which are not found in gram-positive bacteria.
Compare the cell wall components listed in the problem. Peptidoglycan is found in both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, but in different amounts. Chitin is not a component of bacterial cell walls; it is found in fungi. Teichoic acid is found in gram-positive bacteria.
Recognize that lipopolysaccharides are unique to gram-negative bacteria. They are part of the outer membrane and play a role in the structural integrity and protection of the cell.
Conclude that lipopolysaccharides are the correct answer as they are unique to gram-negative prokaryotic cells, distinguishing them from gram-positive cells.