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Questions and Answers
What are bacteria?
What are bacteria?
Single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus or any membrane-bound organelle.
Which of the following statements is true regarding prokaryotic cells?
Which of the following statements is true regarding prokaryotic cells?
Eukaryotic cells have a more complex structure than prokaryotic cells.
Eukaryotic cells have a more complex structure than prokaryotic cells.
True
Bacterial cell walls are composed of ______.
Bacterial cell walls are composed of ______.
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What is the function of the capsule in bacteria?
What is the function of the capsule in bacteria?
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What is the function of ribosomes in bacterial cells?
What is the function of ribosomes in bacterial cells?
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Match the bacterial structures with their functions:
Match the bacterial structures with their functions:
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Plasmids are small cellular DNA used to exchange DNA between bacterial cells.
Plasmids are small cellular DNA used to exchange DNA between bacterial cells.
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What shape is the DNA in prokaryotic cells?
What shape is the DNA in prokaryotic cells?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Bacteria
- Bacteria are single-celled organisms classified as prokaryotic cells, lacking a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
- Recognized for their potential to cause diseases and infections in various living organisms.
Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells
- Prokaryotic Cells:
- Simple structure with DNA floating freely in the cytoplasm.
- Generally smaller than eukaryotic cells.
- Eukaryotic Cells:
- Can be single-celled or multicellular with a defined nucleus.
- More complex structure and generally larger than prokaryotic cells.
Bacterial Cell Structure
- Bacterial cells contain various structures that provide functionality similar to those in plant and animal cells.
Cell Wall
- Composed of peptidoglycan, unlike plant cell walls made of cellulose.
- Provides structural support, mechanical strength, and protection against bursting in hypotonic conditions.
Capsule
- A polysaccharide protective layer that prevents dehydration and shields against phagocytosis.
Cytoplasm
- Acts as a storehouse for chemicals and cellular components necessary for growth, metabolism, and replication of genetic material.
Plasma Membrane
- Semi-permeable membrane regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell, including waste removal.
Ribosomes
- Responsible for protein synthesis; unique in that antibiotics can selectively inhibit bacterial ribosomes without affecting eukaryotic counterparts.
Flagella
- Hair-like structures enabling locomotion; assist in moving bacteria in various directions and may be found at the cell's ends or surface.
Pili
- Small hair-like projections that aid in adhesion to surfaces or hosts; involved in gene transfer through a mechanism known as conjugation via a fertility pill.
Plasmid
- Small circular DNA molecules that facilitate the exchange of genetic material between bacterial cells.
Characteristics of Prokaryotes
- Lack a nucleus, containing circular DNA structured like a twisted rubber band.
- Do not possess membrane-bound organelles.
- Have a protective cell wall external to the cell membrane.
- May feature flagella for movement.
Microscopy of Bacterial Cells
- Observation through light and electron microscopes reveals the intricate structure of bacteria, including external features like the cell wall and flagella.
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Description
This quiz explores the fundamental structures and functions of bacteria, which are prokaryotic, single-celled organisms. You'll learn about their unique cellular components and how their shapes classify them. Perfect for anyone studying microbiology or cellular biology.
