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Questions and Answers
What role do enzymes play in bacterial metabolism?
What role do enzymes play in bacterial metabolism?
- Enzymes store energy for bacterial growth.
- Enzymes act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions. (correct)
- Enzymes provide structural support to bacterial cells.
- Enzymes decrease the rate of chemical reactions.
What is a metabolite in the context of bacterial growth?
What is a metabolite in the context of bacterial growth?
- A nutrient that enhances bacterial reproduction.
- A waste product produced during bacterial metabolism. (correct)
- A substance that protects bacteria from environmental stress.
- An enzyme that aids in energy production.
What specific effect does the metabolite produced by Streptococcus mutans have?
What specific effect does the metabolite produced by Streptococcus mutans have?
- It increases the pH balance in the mouth.
- It demineralizes tooth enamel, leading to cavities. (correct)
- It promotes the growth of other beneficial bacteria.
- It helps in the digestion of food particles.
Which of the following statements about enzyme function is true?
Which of the following statements about enzyme function is true?
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How do bacterial enzymes primarily contribute to a bacterium's survival?
How do bacterial enzymes primarily contribute to a bacterium's survival?
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Study Notes
Microbial Enzymes
- Enzymes act as catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions vital for bacterial survival.
- Bacteria utilize enzymes to decompose organic materials and generate necessary energy and building blocks.
- Enzymes remain unchanged after facilitating reactions, allowing them to be reused multiple times.
Metabolites
- Bacterial growth and metabolism yield by-products known as metabolites.
- Metabolites are often waste products released into the environment as bacteria break down nutrients.
- Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium linked to dental caries, creates acids that erode tooth enamel, demonstrating the role of metabolites in health and disease.
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Description
Test your knowledge on microbial enzymes and their role as catalysts in bacterial metabolism. Explore how these enzymes influence the production of metabolites, including those linked to dental health. Understand the implications of bacterial waste products in various biological processes.
