Prokaryotic Cells Quiz

Prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They contain a single circular DNA molecule.

Bacteria are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and are found in diverse habitats, including extreme environments.

The cell wall provides structural support and protection for bacterial cells. It maintains their shape.

The plasma membrane, a thin layer surrounding the cytoplasm, regulates the passage of molecules in and out of the bacterial cell.

Bacterial DNA is organized as a single circular molecule called a chromosome. They may also possess smaller circular DNA molecules called plasmids, which carry additional genes.

Sites within a bacterial cell where proteins are synthesized.

Storage structures within bacteria that hold excess nutrients or resources.

A tail-like structure that helps bacteria move in liquid environments.

Hair-like structures on the surface of bacteria that help them adhere to surfaces.

A protective outer layer that surrounds some bacteria, making them difficult for immune cells to capture.

A unique molecule found in bacterial cell walls, composed of alternating sugar and amino acid molecules.

A staining technique that differentiates bacteria based on their cell wall structure.

Bacteria that have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell wall, staining purple with Gram staining.

Round-shaped bacteria.

Bacteria that are rod-shaped.

Bacteria that are spiral-shaped.

The arrangement of bacteria in a group of cells.

A group of single-celled organisms lacking a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, that have a single circular DNA molecule.

A group of organisms with a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, including mitochondria and chloroplasts, that have linear DNA.

A theory explaining how eukaryotic cells evolved from prokaryotes.

Organelles that were once independent bacteria that were engulfed by a larger prokaryotic cell.

A complex structure made of proteins that allows bacteria to move. Bacteria can spin their flagella to propel themselves forward or tumble randomly when they need to change direction.

They are short, hair-like structures that help bacteria stick to surfaces and other cells. They are particularly important for pathogenic bacteria as they help them colonize hosts and cause disease.

A protective layer made of polysaccharides, proteins, and/or glycolipids that surrounds some bacteria. It makes cells slippery, protects them from dehydration and environmental hazards, and makes them resistant to phagocytosis by white blood cells.

A form of bacterial communication where bacteria release hormone-like molecules. The number of these molecules present allows bacteria to sense how many of their own kind are around and change their behavior accordingly.

A thick layer of microbes and an extracellular matrix that is produced and inhabited by bacteria. Biofilms often display increased antibiotic resistance and protect bacteria from the immune system.

The ability of bacteria to use inorganic substances like phosphate, sulfur, or lipids to create biodegradable polymers used in bioplastics.

Structures inside bacteria that are filled with gas and allow cells to alter their buoyancy in water columns.

Iron oxide crystals within bacteria that allow them to align themselves with magnetic fields, aiding in movement.

A state where bacteria survive harsh conditions with minimal activity. They form several layers of walls around their DNA to remain dormant. These cells don't consume food or produce waste, making them nearly indestructible.

A collection of microbes that live in and on our bodies, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It plays a crucial role in our health, aiding digestion, synthesizing vitamins, and protecting us from pathogens.

The complex ecosystem of microbes that thrive in various environments, including soil, plants, water, and the human body. It is key to understanding microbial interactions and their impact on ecosystems.

Bacteria that cause disease by using the human body as a food source.

Bacteria that resist even harsh conditions like extreme temperatures, radiation, and disinfectants.

The process of bacteria forming specialized structures called endospores to survive adverse conditions.

Microscopic communities of bacteria that form a protective layer on surfaces. They are common in nature and can be difficult to eradicate.

The change in the human microbiome after death, where microbes start to decompose the body. It's an ecosystem of its own.