Multiple Choice
Which type of bacterial enzyme helps spread Streptococcus pyogenes by digesting blood clots?
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7. Prokaryotic Cell Structures & Functions
Introduction to Bacterial Cell Walls
Multiple Choice
Which of the following prevents the rupture of bacterial cells by internal osmotic pressure?
A
Capsule
B
Plasma membrane
C
Flagella
D
Peptidoglycan layer
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of osmotic pressure in bacterial cells: Osmotic pressure is the force exerted by the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane due to differences in solute concentration inside and outside the cell.
Identify the structural components of a bacterial cell relevant to maintaining cell integrity: These include the capsule, plasma membrane, flagella, and the peptidoglycan layer.
Analyze the function of each component: The capsule mainly protects against desiccation and immune responses; the plasma membrane controls substance passage but is flexible; flagella are for motility and do not provide structural support.
Focus on the peptidoglycan layer: This is a rigid, mesh-like structure surrounding the plasma membrane that provides mechanical strength and prevents the cell from bursting due to internal osmotic pressure.
Conclude that the peptidoglycan layer acts as a protective barrier against osmotic lysis by maintaining the cell's shape and resisting internal pressure.
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