What is the primary function of the bacterial cell wall?
The primary function of the bacterial cell wall is to provide shape and protection to the bacterial cell, preventing it from bursting in hypotonic environments.
How do Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria differ in cell wall composition?
Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, while Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides.
What role does the bacterial plasma membrane play?
The bacterial plasma membrane regulates the movement of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining homeostasis.
Name two functions of bacterial flagella.
Bacterial flagella are primarily responsible for motility and chemotaxis, enabling bacteria to navigate toward favorable environments.
What is the nucleoid in a bacterial cell?
The nucleoid is an irregularly-shaped region within the bacterial cell that contains its genetic material (DNA).
Describe the function of ribosomes in bacterial cells.
Ribosomes in bacterial cells are responsible for protein synthesis through the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA).
What is the purpose of pili on bacterial cells?
Pili assist in adherence to surfaces, DNA transfer between cells, and can play a role in bacterial movement.
How does the bacterial capsule aid in bacterial survival?
The bacterial capsule protects cells from phagocytosis and helps in adherence to surfaces, enhancing survival in hostile environments.
What is the role of plasmids in bacterial cells?
Plasmids carry additional genes that can be beneficial, such as antibiotic resistance, and can be transferred between bacteria.
What function does the mesosome serve in bacterial cells?
Mesosomes are thought to aid in cell wall formation during division and increase the surface area for enzymatic reactions.
What is the role of inclusions in bacterial cells?
Inclusions store nutrients or building blocks such as carbon and sulfur, helping bacteria survive under nutrient limitation.
What are spores in the context of bacterial cells?
Spores are dormant, highly resistant structures formed by some bacteria to survive harsh conditions.
What is the significance of bacterial glycocalyx?
The glycocalyx aids in adherence, biofilm formation, and protection against desiccation and phagocytosis.
What components make up the Gram-negative outer membrane?
The Gram-negative outer membrane is composed of a lipid bilayer with lipopolysaccharides, proteins, and phospholipids.
How do fimbriae differ from flagella in structure and function?
Fimbriae are short and numerous, primarily used for attachment, while flagella are longer and fewer in number, used for motility.