Bacteria Characteristics and Structure

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25 Questions

What is the primary function of the flagella in bacteria?

Movement

What type of bacterial shape is spiral in nature?

Spiral

What is the function of the capsule in bacteria?

Protection and biofilm formation

What is the main function of the cell wall in bacteria?

Resisting osmotic pressure

What is the function of pili in bacteria?

Attachment to surfaces

What is one way some bacteria move?

Using flagella

What is the purpose of the slimy layer in some bacteria?

To grip surfaces

What can carry some bacteria?

The movement of air or liquids

What is NOT a way bacteria move?

Crawling using legs

How do some bacteria interact with their environment?

They use their slimy layer to grip it

What is a common cause of food poisoning?

Campylobacter

What is a type of illness that can be caused by bacteria?

Typhoid fever

What type of environment can contribute to the growth of bacteria?

Acidic condition

What is the effect of Campylobacter on humans?

It can create illnesses

What is the category of bacteria that can cause food poisoning?

Campylobacter

How long should you wash your hands with soap and warm water to prevent bacterial transfer?

20 seconds

What is the primary purpose of cooking food thoroughly?

To kill any pathogens that may be in your food

At what temperature should you store food to limit pathogen growth?

40°F

Why is it important to wash your hands frequently?

To prevent bacterial transfer to your mouth or food

What is the minimum amount of harmful bacteria that can cause botulism?

One-millionth of the bacterium

What is the result of not storing food properly?

Pathogen growth is accelerated

What can botulism cause if left untreated?

Paralysis or death

What is the primary source of botulism?

Food contaminated with harmful bacteria

Why is botulism a serious foodborne illness?

It can cause paralysis or death

What is the consequence of ingesting even a small amount of harmful bacteria?

Paralysis or death

Study Notes

Characteristics of Bacteria

  • Bacteria have three basic shapes: rod-shaped (bacilli), round-shaped (cocci), and spiral-shaped.

Structure of Bacteria

  • Bacteria have a cell wall that resists osmotic pressure.
  • They have flagella, which enable movement.
  • They have pili, which enable attachment.
  • They have a capsule, which provides protection and helps form biofilms.

Movement and Feeding

  • Bacteria move in various ways, including using flagella or a slimy layer to grip surfaces.
  • Some bacteria are carried by the movement of air or liquids.

Harmful Effects of Bacteria

  • Campylobacter is a group of bacteria that can cause illnesses in humans and is a common cause of food poisoning.
  • Harmful bacteria in food can cause botulism, which can lead to paralysis or even death if ingested in small quantities.
  • Preventing the spread of bacteria is crucial, and this can be achieved by:
    • Washing hands regularly with warm water and soap for 20 seconds, paying attention to the areas between fingers and nails.
    • Cooking food thoroughly to kill pathogens.
    • Storing food properly at cold temperatures (40°F) to limit pathogen growth.

This quiz covers the basic shapes and structures of bacteria, including their cell walls, flagella, and pili. Learn about the characteristics of bacilli, cocci, and spiral-shaped bacteria.

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