Question 1

Which of the following statements best distinguishes the two prokaryotic domains, Bacteria and Archaea?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria have ester bonds linking fatty acids to glycerol in their cell membranes, while Archaea have ether bonds linking glycerol to isoprenoids.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the process of binary fission in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

A single cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells through a process involving DNA replication and cytokinesis.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a typical shape assumed by prokaryotic cells?

Accepted Answer

Cuboidal

Question 4

Which statement correctly compares Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial cell walls?

Accepted Answer

Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, while Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the function of the glycocalyx in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

It provides an additional layer of protection external to the cell wall, aiding in evasion of host immune responses.

Question 6

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic plasma membranes is correct?

Accepted Answer

They are composed of a phospholipid bilayer that acts as a selective barrier for the cell.

Question 7

A patient is infected with a bacterium that survives harsh conditions such as high heat and desiccation. Which structure is most likely responsible for this resistance?

Accepted Answer

Endospore

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the difference between passive and active transport across the prokaryotic cell membrane?

Accepted Answer

Passive transport does not require energy, while active transport requires energy input.

Question 9

Which of the following structures is primarily responsible for motility in many prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Flagellum

Question 10

A scientist is studying a prokaryotic cell and observes a region containing genetic material but no surrounding membrane. What is this region called?

Accepted Answer

Nucleoid

Question 11

Which of the following statements about prokaryotic ribosomes is correct?

Accepted Answer

They have a lower overall mass and diameter compared to eukaryotic ribosomes.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why endospores present challenges in healthcare settings?

Accepted Answer

They are highly resistant to environmental stress such as starvation, heat, drying, freezing, radiation, and chemicals.

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of fimbriae in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Attachment to surfaces and other cells

Question 14

A researcher is comparing the cell walls of bacteria and archaea. Which of the following is a correct distinction?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial cell walls contain peptidoglycan, while archaeal cell walls do not.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the structure and function of the prokaryotic cytoskeleton?

Accepted Answer

It is composed of long protein filaments that provide structure and support to the cell.

Question 16

A bacterium is found to have an external layer rich in mycolic acids. Which type of cell wall does it most likely possess?

Accepted Answer

Acid-fast cell wall

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the role of pili in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

They are longer, bristle-like structures that facilitate attachment and sometimes DNA transfer between cells.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct statement about the function of prokaryotic ribosomes in relation to antibiotics?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics often target structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the function of the plasma membrane in prokaryotes?

Accepted Answer

Acts as a selective barrier, controlling the movement of substances in and out of the cell

Question 20

A prokaryotic cell is observed to have a thick peptidoglycan layer but no outer membrane. Which type of cell wall does it have?

Accepted Answer

Gram-positive

Question 21

Which of the following best explains why the nucleoid is not considered a true nucleus?

Accepted Answer

It is not surrounded by a membrane.

Prokaryotic Cell Structure and Function: Chapter 3 Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards