Bacterial Characteristics and Environments Quiz

A non-living infectious particle that is much smaller than a cell (20-400 nanometers) and contains nucleic acids (DNA or RNA), proteins, and sometimes lipids.

Viruses are not considered living organisms because they lack the necessary characteristics: they do not grow or develop, obtain and use energy, or respond to the environment in any way.

This is the genetic material of the virus, made up of either DNA or RNA, carrying its genetic information.

This is a protective protein coat that surrounds the nucleic acid core, shielding it from the environment.

These are proteins on the surface of the virus that allow it to attach to specific receptors on the host cell's membrane.

This is a lipid-based outer layer that helps the virus fuse with the host cell's membrane to enter.

These are viruses that specifically infect bacteria and destroy them. They have two main regions: a head, which contains the genetic material, and a tail, which helps them attach to and inject their DNA into the bacterial cell.

Active immunization involves injecting a weakened or inactive form of a pathogen (vaccine) into the body. This stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against that pathogen, creating a 'memory' so the body can fight off future infections more effectively.

Bacteria cells are classified by how they obtain energy, and there are two main categories: Photoautotrophs and Chemoheterotrophs.

These bacteria use sunlight as their energy source and carbon dioxide as their carbon source. They are similar to plants.

These bacteria obtain energy from the breakdown of organic compounds and use them as their carbon source. They are similar to most animals.

They are organisms that are capable of performing photosynthesis, using sunlight to produce energy.

They cannot produce their own food and rely on consuming organic compounds for energy and carbon sources.

A type of immunity that protects individuals who are not vaccinated. This occurs when a high percentage of the population has been immunized, making it difficult for a contagious disease to spread.

The percentage of a population that needs to be immunized to achieve herd immunity for a specific disease. It varies based on factors like the contagiousness of the disease.

A protein produced by the body's immune system in response to an antigen. It binds to antigens to neutralize them and trigger an immune response.

A type of immune response where specialized cells (T lymphocytes) recognize and destroy virus-infected cells, preventing the virus from spreading further.

A type of infection where the virus multiplies inside the host cell, eventually destroying it. This process involves multiple steps like attachment, entry, and release of new viral particles.

A type of virus infection where the viral DNA integrates into the host cell's DNA and remains dormant for a period. The host cell continues to replicate with the integrated virus.

The process by which viruses are transmitted from one individual to another. This can happen through direct contact, indirect contact, droplets, or airborne transmission.

The passing of a virus from one individual to another through direct contact, like touching an infected person or engaging in sexual contact.

A type of bacterial cell wall with a thick layer of peptidoglycan, making it more resistant to antibiotics and immune system defenses.

A type of bacterial cell wall with a thin layer of peptidoglycan and an outer membrane, making it more susceptible to antibiotics and immune system defenses.

A form of asexual reproduction in bacteria where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells.

The transfer of genetic material between two bacteria through a specialized structure called a sex pilus, allowing for genetic diversity.

A dormant, highly resistant spore formed by bacteria under unfavorable conditions, allowing them to survive harsh environments.

Bacteria that break down dead organic matter, returning nutrients to the environment.

A process where bacteria in wastewater break down complex compounds from human waste, food, and chemicals.

The conversion of atmospheric nitrogen gas (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃) by bacteria, mainly Rhizobium in plant root nodules.

Bacteria that live in animal intestines, aiding digestion by breaking down food and making nutrients available.

The use of bacteria in food production, such as Lactobacillus for making cheese and yogurt.

Using bacteria to break down pollutants like hydrocarbons, PCB`s, plastics, and metals, cleaning up the environment.

Using bacteria to extract metals like copper from their ores.

Bacteria can cause disease by damaging cells and tissues, or by releasing toxins into the body.

These are single-celled, eukaryotic organisms that are collectively known as "protozoans".

These protists use flagella for movement, which are whip-like projections that help them swim.

These protists use pseudopods for both movement and feeding. Pseudopods are temporary cytoplasmic projections that extend outwards.

These protists use cilia for movement and feeding. Cilia are short, hair-like projections that help them move around and sweep food into their mouths.

These protists are all parasites that lack cilia and flagella. They are known for their unique method of reproduction through spores.

These protists contain chloroplasts, two flagella, and sometimes a red eyespot. They are known for their ability to photosynthesize like plants.

These protists produce thin cell walls rich in silicon. They are a major component of phytoplankton and are the basis for many marine food webs.

These protists contain chlorophyll and carotenoids, giving them a reddish-brown color. They are often associated with red tides and bioluminescence.