Bacterial Cell Structure

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