Microbiology Midterm Review Quiz

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  • 1/144 Questions

    Disease-causing microorganisms are called

    • Decomposers.
    • Procaryotes.
    • Pathogens.
    • Eucaryotes.
    • Fermenters.
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About This Quiz


Welcome to our Microbiology Midterm Review Quiz! This quiz is specially designed to help you prepare for your upcoming midterm exam in microbiology. This quiz is an invaluable tool for reviewing key concepts. Test your knowledge across various areas of microbiology, including microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, and microbial interactions.

Take advantage of this opportunity to identify areas where you may need additional study and reinforce your understanding of challenging concepts. Whether you're aiming for a top grade or simply striving to deepen your understanding of microbiology, this quiz will help you assess your readiness for the midterm exam. Are you ready to ace your microbiology midterm? Let's begin the quiz!

Microbiology Midterm Review Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    Which of the following diseases is transmitted by mosquitoes?

    • Diarrheal diseases

    • Tuberculosis

    • Malaria

    • Septicemia

    • Influenza

    Correct Answer
    A. Malaria
    Explanation
    Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes become infected with the malaria parasite by biting an infected person and then transmit the parasite to another person when they bite them. This disease is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions where the Anopheles mosquito, the carrier of the parasite, is present. Malaria can cause high fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Effective prevention measures include the use of mosquito nets, insect repellents, and antimalarial medications.

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  • 3. 

    Which of the following is not considered a microorganism?

    • Mosquito

    • Protozoa

    • Bacteria

    • Viruses

    • Fungi

    Correct Answer
    A. Mosquito
    Explanation
    A mosquito is not considered a microorganism because it is a macroscopic organism that can be seen with the naked eye. Microorganisms, on the other hand, are microscopic organisms that can only be seen under a microscope. Protozoa, bacteria, viruses, and fungi are all examples of microorganisms as they are too small to be seen without magnification.

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  • 4. 

    Which of the following is the correct way to write the scientific name of this bacterium?

    • Staph Aureus

    • Staphylococcus Aureus

    • Staphylococcus aureus

    • Staphylococcus Aureus

    • S. Aureus

    Correct Answer
    A. Staphylococcus aureus
    Explanation
    The correct way to write the scientific name of this bacterium is "Staphylococcus aureus" because scientific names follow a specific format called binomial nomenclature, which includes the genus name (Staphylococcus) and the species name (aureus). The genus name is always capitalized and the species name is always written in lowercase.

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  • 5. 

    Which of the following is a scientific name?

    • Bacteria

    • Protista

    • Species

    • Bacillus subtilis

    • Bacilli

    Correct Answer
    A. Bacillus subtilis
    Explanation
    Bacillus subtilis is a scientific name because it follows the binomial nomenclature system used in taxonomy. It consists of two parts: the genus name (Bacillus) and the specific epithet (subtilis). This naming convention helps to provide a standardized way of identifying and classifying organisms. In contrast, the other options (bacteria, Protista, species, bacilli) do not follow this format and are not considered scientific names.

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  • 6. 

    The microorganisms that do not have a nucleus in their cells are called

    • Decomposers.

    • Procaryotes.

    • Pathogens.

    • Eucaryotes.

    • Fermenters.

    Correct Answer
    A. Procaryotes.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is procaryotes. Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. They are characterized by their simple cell structure and include bacteria and archaea. Prokaryotes play important roles in various ecosystems, including as decomposers, pathogens, and fermenters. However, it is important to note that not all prokaryotes are decomposers, pathogens, or fermenters.

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  • 7. 

    When humans manipulate the genes of microorganisms the process is called

    • Bioremediation.

    • Genetic engineering.

    • Epidemiology.

    • Immunology.

    • Taxonomy.

    Correct Answer
    A. Genetic engineering.
    Explanation
    Genetic engineering refers to the process of manipulating the genes of microorganisms, typically through the introduction of foreign DNA or modification of existing DNA. This process allows scientists to alter the genetic makeup of microorganisms in order to produce desired traits or outcomes. Bioremediation, on the other hand, refers to the use of microorganisms to remove or neutralize pollutants from the environment. Epidemiology and immunology are fields of study related to the spread and control of diseases, while taxonomy is the classification and categorization of organisms.

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  • 8. 

    If a microbiologist is studying a specimen at a total magnification of 950X, what is the magnifying power of the objective lens is 10X?

    • 100X

    • 950X

    • 85X

    • 850X

    • 95X

    Correct Answer
    A. 95X
    Explanation
    The magnifying power of a microscope is calculated by multiplying the magnification of the objective lens by the magnification of the eyepiece. In this case, the magnification of the objective lens is given as 10X. Since the total magnification is given as 950X, we can divide the total magnification by the magnification of the objective lens to find the magnification of the eyepiece. Therefore, the magnifying power of the eyepiece is 950X / 10X = 95X.

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  • 9. 

    What is the correct sequence for a Gram stain?

    • Gram's iodine, crystal violet, alcohol, safranin

    • Crystal violet, safranin, alcohol, Gram's iodine

    • Crystal violet, Gram's iodine, alcohol, safranin

    • Safranin, crystal violet, Gram's iodine, alcohol

    • Alcohol, crystal violet, safranin, Gram's iodine

    Correct Answer
    A. Crystal violet, Gram's iodine, alcohol, safranin
    Explanation
    The correct sequence for a Gram stain is crystal violet, Gram's iodine, alcohol, safranin. This sequence is important for differentiating between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Crystal violet is the primary stain that stains both types of bacteria purple. Gram's iodine is the mordant that forms a complex with crystal violet, making it more difficult to wash out of Gram-positive bacteria. Alcohol is the decolorizer that removes the crystal violet-iodine complex from Gram-negative bacteria, leaving them colorless. Safranin is the counterstain that stains Gram-negative bacteria pink, allowing them to be differentiated from the purple Gram-positive bacteria.

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  • 10. 

    Helminths are

    • Bacteria.

    • Protozoa.

    • Molds.

    • Parasitic worms.

    • Infectious particles.

    Correct Answer
    A. Parasitic worms.
    Explanation
    Helminths are classified as parasitic worms. They are multicellular organisms that infect and live in the bodies of animals, including humans. Unlike bacteria, protozoa, molds, and infectious particles, helminths are specifically characterized as worms that cause parasitic infections.

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  • 11. 

    The term that refers to the purposeful addition of microorganisms into a laboratory nutrient medium is

    • Isolation.

    • Inoculation.

    • Immunization.

    • Infection.

    • Contamination.

    Correct Answer
    A. Inoculation.
    Explanation
    Inoculation refers to the purposeful addition of microorganisms into a laboratory nutrient medium. This process is done in order to study and culture specific microorganisms for various purposes such as identification, testing, or research. Isolation refers to the separation or purification of a specific microorganism from a mixed population, immunization refers to the process of inducing immunity against a specific pathogen, infection refers to the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in a host organism, and contamination refers to the introduction of unwanted microorganisms into a sterile environment.

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  • 12. 

    The term phototroph refers to an organism that

    • Uses CO2 for its carbon source.

    • Must obtain organic compounds for its carbon needs.

    • Gets energy from sunlight.

    • Gets energy by oxidizing chemical compounds.

    • Does not need a carbon source.

    Correct Answer
    A. Gets energy from sunlight.
    Explanation
    A phototroph is an organism that obtains its energy from sunlight. This means that it is capable of converting light energy into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. This process allows the organism to produce its own food using carbon dioxide as its carbon source. Therefore, the correct answer is "gets energy from sunlight."

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  • 13. 

    Spontaneous generation is the belief that

    • Germs cause infectious diseases.

    • Microbes are diverse and ubiquitous.

    • Microbes placed in an infusion can grow in it.

    • Aseptic techniques reduce microbes in medical settings.

    • Living things arise from nonliving matter.

    Correct Answer
    A. Living things arise from nonliving matter.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "living things arise from nonliving matter." Spontaneous generation refers to the belief that living organisms can arise from nonliving materials. This theory was widely accepted until it was disproven by Louis Pasteur's experiments in the 19th century, which demonstrated that living organisms only come from pre-existing living organisms. This discovery laid the foundation for the modern understanding of microbiology and the concept of biogenesis.

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  • 14. 

    The primary purpose of staining cells on a microscope slide is to

    • Kill them.

    • Secure them to the slide.

    • Enlarge the cells.

    • Add contrast in order to see them better.

    • See motility.

    Correct Answer
    A. Add contrast in order to see them better.
    Explanation
    Staining cells on a microscope slide is done to add contrast in order to see them better. By using different dyes or stains, the cells can be highlighted and differentiated from their surroundings, making them easier to observe and study under a microscope. Staining enhances the visibility of cellular structures, such as organelles or specific cell components, allowing for a more detailed examination and analysis of the cells. This technique is commonly used in various scientific and medical fields to aid in the identification and characterization of cells.

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  • 15. 

    Sources for human infection with worms are all of the following except

    • Infected animals.

    • Contaminated food.

    • Contaminated water.

    • Contaminated soil.

    • Contaminated air.

    Correct Answer
    A. Contaminated air.
    Explanation
    Human infection with worms can occur through various means, including infected animals, contaminated food, contaminated water, and contaminated soil. However, contaminated air is not a common source of worm infections in humans. Worms are typically transmitted through direct contact with infected sources or ingestion of contaminated substances, rather than through inhalation of airborne particles. Therefore, contaminated air is the exception among the given options.

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  • 16. 

    The outcome of the Gram stain is based on differences in the cell's

    • Ribosomes.

    • Inclusions.

    • Cell wall.

    • Cell membrane.

    • Flagella.

    Correct Answer
    A. Cell wall.
    Explanation
    The outcome of the Gram stain is based on differences in the cell wall. Gram staining is a technique used to differentiate bacteria into two groups, Gram-positive and Gram-negative, based on the properties of their cell walls. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls, which retains the crystal violet stain and appears purple under a microscope. On the other hand, Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane, which does not retain the stain and appears pink or red. Therefore, the outcome of the Gram stain relies on the differences in the composition and structure of the cell wall.

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  • 17. 

    The process that destroys or removes all microorganisms and microbial forms including bacterial endospores is

    • Disinfection.

    • Sterilization.

    • Antisepsis.

    • Sanitization.

    • Degermation.

    Correct Answer
    A. Sterilization.
    Explanation
    Sterilization is the process that completely destroys or removes all forms of microorganisms, including bacterial endospores. It is the highest level of microbial control and ensures the complete elimination of any potential pathogens. Disinfection, on the other hand, reduces the number of microorganisms but may not eliminate all of them. Antisepsis refers to the process of reducing microorganisms on living tissues, while sanitization refers to reducing microorganisms on inanimate objects. Degermation is a type of sanitization that specifically targets the removal of microorganisms from the skin or other living tissues.

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  • 18. 

    The Five I's of studying microorganisms include all of the following except

    • Inoculation.

    • Incubation.

    • Infection.

    • Isolation.

    • Identification.

    Correct Answer
    A. Infection.
    Explanation
    The Five I's of studying microorganisms refer to the five essential steps involved in microbiological techniques: inoculation, incubation, isolation, identification, and inspection. Infection is not included in the Five I's because it is not a step in the process of studying microorganisms. Infection refers to the invasion and multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms in a host organism, which is a different concept compared to the techniques used in studying microorganisms in a laboratory setting.

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  • 19. 

    The surgeon who advocated using disinfectants on hands and in the air prior to surgery was

    • Joseph Lister.

    • Ignaz Semmelweis.

    • Robert Koch.

    • Louis Pasteur.

    • Antonie van Leeuwenhoek.

    Correct Answer
    A. Joseph Lister.
    Explanation
    Joseph Lister is the correct answer because he was a surgeon who promoted the use of disinfectants on hands and in the air before surgery. Lister is known as the pioneer of antiseptic surgery, as he introduced the concept of sterilizing surgical instruments and creating a clean operating environment to prevent infections. His work greatly contributed to the reduction of post-operative infections and improved patient outcomes in surgery.

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  • 20. 

    Peptidoglycan is a unique macromolecule found in bacterial

    • Cell walls.

    • Cell membranes.

    • Capsules.

    • Slime layers.

    • Inclusions.

    Correct Answer
    A. Cell walls.
    Explanation
    Peptidoglycan is a unique macromolecule found in bacterial cell walls. It provides structural support and protection to the bacterial cell. It forms a mesh-like network that surrounds the cell, giving it shape and preventing it from bursting due to osmotic pressure. Peptidoglycan is composed of repeating units of sugar and amino acids, which are cross-linked to form a strong and rigid structure. This macromolecule is not found in cell membranes, capsules, slime layers, or inclusions, making cell walls the correct answer.

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  • 21. 

    Viruses that cause infection resulting in alternating periods of activity with symptoms and inactivity without symptoms are called

    • Latent.

    • Oncogenic.

    • Prions.

    • Viroids.

    • Delta agents.

    Correct Answer
    A. Latent.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "latent." Latent viruses cause infection but alternate between periods of activity with symptoms and inactivity without symptoms. During the inactive periods, the virus remains in the host's cells without causing any symptoms. This allows the virus to persist in the body for extended periods of time, potentially reactivating and causing symptoms again in the future. Examples of latent viruses include herpes viruses, which can cause recurrent outbreaks of symptoms such as cold sores or genital herpes.

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  • 22. 

    The use of energy by a cell to enclose a substance in its membrane by forming a vacuole and engulfing it is called

    • Facilitated diffusion.

    • Diffusion.

    • Active transport.

    • Osmosis.

    • Endocytosis.

    Correct Answer
    A. Endocytosis.
    Explanation
    Endocytosis is the process by which a cell uses energy to enclose a substance in its membrane by forming a vacuole and engulfing it. This process allows the cell to take in large molecules or particles that are too big to pass through the cell membrane by diffusion or osmosis. Facilitated diffusion, diffusion, and osmosis do not involve the formation of a vacuole or engulfing of substances. Active transport is a different process that requires energy but does not specifically involve the formation of a vacuole.

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  • 23. 

    Which type of medium is able to distinguish different species or types of microorganisms based on an observable change in the colonies or in the medium?

    • Differential

    • Selective

    • Enumeration

    • Enriched

    • Reducing

    Correct Answer
    A. Differential
    Explanation
    Differential medium is able to distinguish different species or types of microorganisms based on an observable change in the colonies or in the medium. This type of medium contains specific nutrients or indicators that allow for the differentiation of microorganisms based on their ability to metabolize or produce certain compounds. By observing the changes in the colonies or the medium, scientists can identify and differentiate between different types of microorganisms.

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  • 24. 

    The most immediate result of destruction of a cell's ribosomes would be

    • Material would not be able to cross the cell membrane.

    • Protein synthesis would stop.

    • Destruction of the cell's DNA.

    • Formation of glycogen inclusions.

    • Loss of capsule.

    Correct Answer
    A. Protein synthesis would stop.
    Explanation
    If a cell's ribosomes are destroyed, it would directly impact protein synthesis. Ribosomes are responsible for translating the genetic information stored in DNA into proteins. Without functional ribosomes, the cell would not be able to produce proteins, which are essential for various cellular processes and functions. Therefore, the most immediate result of ribosome destruction would be the cessation of protein synthesis.

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  • 25. 

    Virus capsids are made from subunits called

    • Envelopes.

    • Spikes.

    • Capsomeres.

    • Prophages.

    • Peplomers.

    Correct Answer
    A. Capsomeres.
    Explanation
    Virus capsids are the protein coats that surround the genetic material of a virus. These capsids are made up of subunits called capsomeres, which self-assemble to form the protective structure. Capsomeres play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and stability of the virus particle. Envelopes, spikes, prophages, and peplomers are not subunits of virus capsids, but rather refer to other components or structures associated with certain types of viruses.

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  • 26. 

    Enzymes that can function at boiling water temperatures or other harsh conditions would be termed

    • Denatured.

    • Ribozymes.

    • Abzymes.

    • Exoenzymes.

    • Extremozymes.

    Correct Answer
    A. Extremozymes.
    Explanation
    Enzymes that can function at boiling water temperatures or other harsh conditions would be termed extremozymes. Extremozymes are enzymes that have evolved to withstand and function optimally in extreme environments, such as high temperatures, high pressures, or extreme pH levels. These enzymes are typically found in extremophilic organisms, which thrive in extreme habitats like hot springs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, or acidic environments. Extremozymes have important applications in various industries, including biotechnology, where their stability and activity under extreme conditions are beneficial for industrial processes.

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  • 27. 

    The antiparallel arrangement within DNA molecules refers to

    • Each base bonding at 1' position of the sugar.

    • A purine always bonding to a pyrimidine.

    • One helix strand that runs from the 5' to 3' direction and the other strand runs from the 3' to 5' direction.

    • An original parent DNA strand and one newly synthesized DNA strand comprising a new DNA molecule.

    • None of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. One helix strand that runs from the 5' to 3' direction and the other strand runs from the 3' to 5' direction.
    Explanation
    The antiparallel arrangement within DNA molecules refers to one helix strand running in the 5' to 3' direction and the other strand running in the 3' to 5' direction. This means that the two strands of DNA run in opposite directions. The 5' end of one strand is paired with the 3' end of the other strand. This arrangement is crucial for DNA replication and transcription processes, as it allows for the complementary base pairing between the two strands.

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  • 28. 

    This microscope achieves the greatest resolution and highest magnification:

    • Bright-field

    • Dark-field

    • Phase-contrast

    • Fluorescence

    • Electron

    Correct Answer
    A. Electron
    Explanation
    The electron microscope achieves the greatest resolution and highest magnification among the given options. Unlike other microscopes that use light, the electron microscope uses a beam of electrons to illuminate the specimen. Since electrons have a much shorter wavelength than light, they can resolve smaller details, leading to higher resolution. Additionally, the electron microscope can achieve much higher magnification levels due to the shorter wavelength of electrons. Therefore, the electron microscope is the most suitable option for achieving the greatest resolution and highest magnification.

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  • 29. 

    The function of bacterial endospores is

    • Convert gaseous nitrogen to a usable form for plants.

    • Reproduction and growth.

    • Protection of genetic material during harsh conditions.

    • Storage of excess cell materials.

    • Sites for photosynthesis.

    Correct Answer
    A. Protection of genetic material during harsh conditions.
    Explanation
    Bacterial endospores are specialized structures formed by certain bacteria as a survival mechanism during unfavorable conditions such as extreme temperatures, desiccation, or exposure to harmful chemicals. These endospores are highly resistant to these harsh conditions and protect the genetic material of the bacteria, allowing it to remain dormant until more favorable conditions arise. This ensures the survival of the bacteria and the preservation of its genetic information. Therefore, the function of bacterial endospores is the protection of genetic material during harsh conditions.

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  • 30. 

    Host cells of viruses include

    • Human and other animals.

    • Plants and fungi.

    • Bacteria.

    • Protozoa and algae.

    • All of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "All of the choices are correct." This means that viruses can infect and replicate within host cells of human and other animals, plants and fungi, bacteria, protozoa, and algae. Viruses have evolved to infect a wide range of hosts, allowing them to adapt and survive in different environments.

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  • 31. 

    Bacteria that require special growth factors and complex organic substances are called

    • Fastidious.

    • Pathogenic.

    • Harmless.

    • Anaerobic.

    • Aerobic.

    Correct Answer
    A. Fastidious.
    Explanation
    Fastidious bacteria are those that have specific and complex requirements for growth, such as the need for special growth factors and complex organic substances. These bacteria are unable to grow or reproduce without these specific conditions being met. Pathogenic bacteria, on the other hand, are capable of causing disease, while harmless bacteria do not cause harm to their host. Anaerobic bacteria can survive and grow without oxygen, whereas aerobic bacteria require oxygen for their growth. Therefore, the correct answer is fastidious, as it accurately describes bacteria with specific growth requirements.

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  • 32. 

    Larvae and eggs are developmental forms of

    • Protozoa.

    • Algae.

    • Helminths.

    • Fungi.

    • None of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. Helminths.
    Explanation
    Larvae and eggs are developmental forms commonly found in helminths, which are parasitic worms. Protozoa are single-celled organisms, algae are photosynthetic organisms, and fungi are multicellular organisms. None of these choices accurately represent the developmental forms of larvae and eggs. Therefore, the correct answer is helminths.

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  • 33. 

    The time interval from parent cell to two new daughter cells is called the

    • Binary fission.

    • Growth curve.

    • Generation time.

    • Death phase.

    • Culture time.

    Correct Answer
    A. Generation time.
    Explanation
    The time interval from parent cell to two new daughter cells is called the generation time. This refers to the time it takes for a population of cells to double in size through cell division. It is an important parameter in microbiology and is used to measure the rate of cell growth and reproduction.

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  • 34. 

    The breakdown of peptidoglycan to N-acetylmuramic acid, N-acetylglucosamine and peptides is an example of

    • Anabolism.

    • Catabolism.

    • Phosphorylation.

    • Fermentation.

    • Biosynthesis.

    Correct Answer
    A. Catabolism.
    Explanation
    The breakdown of peptidoglycan into its components, N-acetylmuramic acid, N-acetylglucosamine, and peptides, involves the breaking down of complex molecules into simpler ones. This process is known as catabolism, which is the set of metabolic pathways that involve the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy in the process. Anabolism, on the other hand, is the set of metabolic pathways that involve the synthesis of larger molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy input. Phosphorylation is the addition of a phosphate group to a molecule, fermentation is a metabolic process that converts sugar into acids, gases, or alcohol, and biosynthesis is the production of complex molecules from simpler ones.

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  • 35. 

    The duplication of a cell's DNA is called

    • Mitosis.

    • Replication.

    • Transcription.

    • Translation.

    • Mutation.

    Correct Answer
    A. Replication.
    Explanation
    The duplication of a cell's DNA is called replication. During replication, the DNA molecule unwinds and separates into two strands, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic information. Mitosis refers to the division of the cell's nucleus, while transcription and translation are involved in protein synthesis. Mutation refers to a change in DNA sequence.

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  • 36. 

    This is often used in forensic science to distinguish one sequence of DNA from another by comparing the sequence of the strands at specific loci:

    • Cloning

    • Gene therapy

    • Antisense therapeutic

    • DNA fingerprinting

    • None of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. DNA fingerprinting
    Explanation
    DNA fingerprinting is often used in forensic science to distinguish one sequence of DNA from another by comparing the sequence of the strands at specific loci. This technique involves analyzing specific regions of DNA that vary between individuals, such as short tandem repeats (STRs). By comparing the patterns of these STRs, scientists can create unique profiles or "fingerprints" for individuals, which can be used for identification purposes. This technique has revolutionized forensic investigations and is widely used in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and other applications where DNA identification is required.

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  • 37. 

    Koch's postulates are criteria used to establish that

    • Microbes are found on dust particles.

    • A specific microbe is the cause of a specific disease.

    • Life forms can only arise from preexisting life forms.

    • A specific microbe should be classified in a specific kingdom.

    • Microbes can be used to clean up toxic spills.

    Correct Answer
    A. A specific microbe is the cause of a specific disease.
    Explanation
    Koch's postulates are a set of criteria used to determine whether a specific microbe is the cause of a specific disease. These postulates include isolating the microbe from an infected individual, culturing it in a laboratory, infecting a healthy individual with the cultured microbe, and observing the same disease symptoms in the newly infected individual. If the microbe satisfies all of these criteria, it can be concluded that it is the causative agent of the disease. This helps in identifying and understanding the causes of various infectious diseases and developing appropriate treatments and preventive measures.

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  • 38. 

    Endospores are

    • Metabolically inactive.

    • Resistant to heat and chemical destruction.

    • Resistant to destruction by radiation.

    • Living structures.

    • All of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the choices are correct.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that all of the choices are correct. Endospores are metabolically inactive, meaning they are in a dormant state and do not carry out any metabolic processes. They are also resistant to heat and chemical destruction, allowing them to survive in harsh conditions. Additionally, they are resistant to destruction by radiation. Therefore, all of the given statements accurately describe endospores.

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  • 39. 

    The core of every virus particle always contains

    • DNA.

    • Capsomers.

    • Enzymes.

    • DNA and RNA.

    • Either DNA or RNA.

    Correct Answer
    A. Either DNA or RNA.
    Explanation
    The core of every virus particle can contain either DNA or RNA. Viruses are small infectious agents that replicate inside the cells of living organisms. They have a protein coat called a capsid, which protects the genetic material inside. This genetic material can be either DNA or RNA, depending on the type of virus. Some viruses have DNA as their genetic material, while others have RNA. Therefore, the correct answer is that the core of every virus particle can contain either DNA or RNA.

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  • 40. 

    An organelle that is a stack of flattened, membranous sacs and functions to receive, modify, and package proteins for cell secretion is the

    • Mitochondria.

    • Lysosomes.

    • Golgi apparatus.

    • Chloroplasts.

    • Endoplasmic reticulum.

    Correct Answer
    A. Golgi apparatus.
    Explanation
    The Golgi apparatus is a stack of flattened, membranous sacs that functions to receive, modify, and package proteins for cell secretion. It is involved in the processing and sorting of proteins, adding carbohydrate modifications to them, and packaging them into vesicles for transport to their final destination within or outside the cell. The other organelles listed (mitochondria, lysosomes, chloroplasts, and endoplasmic reticulum) have different functions and are not directly involved in protein modification and secretion.

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  • 41. 

    Organelles found in algae but not found in protozoa or fungi are the

    • Mitochondria.

    • Lysosomes.

    • Golgi apparatus.

    • Chloroplasts.

    • Endoplasmic reticulum.

    Correct Answer
    A. Chloroplasts.
    Explanation
    Algae are photosynthetic organisms, and chloroplasts are the organelles responsible for photosynthesis. Protozoa and fungi are not capable of photosynthesis, so they do not possess chloroplasts. Mitochondria, lysosomes, golgi apparatus, and endoplasmic reticulum are found in all eukaryotic cells, including algae, protozoa, and fungi. Therefore, the organelle that is specifically found in algae but not in protozoa or fungi is chloroplasts.

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  • 42. 

    Organisms called parasites are

    • Always classified in the kingdom Monera.

    • Always harmful to their host.

    • The decomposers in ecosystems.

    • Always a virus.

    • Free-living.

    Correct Answer
    A. Always harmful to their host.
    Explanation
    Parasites are organisms that rely on a host organism for their survival and reproduction. They harm their host by feeding on their tissues, causing diseases, and sometimes even leading to the death of the host. Therefore, the statement "always harmful to their host" is a correct explanation for parasites.

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  • 43. 

    The term that refers to the presence of flagella all over the cell surface is

    • Amphitrichous.

    • Atrichous.

    • Lophotrichous.

    • Monotrichous.

    • Peritrichous.

    Correct Answer
    A. Peritrichous.
    Explanation
    Peritrichous refers to the presence of flagella all over the cell surface. This means that the flagella are distributed all around the cell, allowing the cell to move in multiple directions. Amphitrichous refers to having flagella at both ends of the cell, atrichous refers to the absence of flagella, lophotrichous refers to having multiple flagella at one end of the cell, and monotrichous refers to having a single flagellum at one end of the cell. Therefore, peritrichous is the correct answer as it accurately describes the presence of flagella all over the cell surface.

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  • 44. 

    A bacterial genus that has waxy mycolic acid in the cell walls is

    • Mycobacterium.

    • Mycoplasma.

    • Streptococcus.

    • Corynebacterium.

    • Salmonella.

    Correct Answer
    A. Mycobacterium.
    Explanation
    Mycobacterium is the correct answer because it is a bacterial genus known for having waxy mycolic acid in its cell walls. This unique feature gives Mycobacterium species their characteristic resistance to staining and their ability to cause diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy. Mycoplasma, Streptococcus, Corynebacterium, and Salmonella are all bacterial genera that do not have waxy mycolic acid in their cell walls.

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  • 45. 

    When a rod shaped bacteria is short and plump, it is called a

    • Spirochete.

    • Pleomorphic.

    • Vibrio.

    • Coccobacillus.

    • Spirillum.

    Correct Answer
    A. Coccobacillus.
    Explanation
    When a rod-shaped bacteria appears short and plump, it is referred to as a coccobacillus. This term is used to describe bacteria that have a shape similar to a coccus (spherical) but are slightly elongated like a bacillus (rod-shaped). Coccobacilli are often seen as oval or rounded rods, and they can appear singly or in pairs. They are typically shorter and wider than typical rod-shaped bacteria, giving them a more plump appearance. The term coccobacillus is commonly used to describe certain bacteria species, such as Haemophilus influenzae.

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  • 46. 

    All of the following is correct about treating viral diseases except

    • Viruses are killed by the same antibiotics that kill bacteria.

    • Many antiviral drugs block viral replication.

    • Many antiviral drugs cause severe side effects.

    • Interferons show potential for treating and preventing viral infections.

    • All of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. Viruses are killed by the same antibiotics that kill bacteria.
    Explanation
    Antibiotics are drugs that specifically target and kill bacteria, not viruses. Viruses are different from bacteria in their structure and life cycle, so antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. Antiviral drugs, on the other hand, are designed to target and inhibit viral replication. Interferons are proteins that play a role in the immune response against viral infections and have shown potential for treating and preventing viral infections. While many antiviral drugs can cause severe side effects, this is not unique to antiviral medication and can occur with any type of drug. Therefore, the statement that viruses are killed by the same antibiotics that kill bacteria is incorrect.

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  • 47. 

    The organelle involved in intracellular digestion of food particles is the

    • Golgi apparatus.

    • Lysosomes.

    • Cisternae.

    • Transitional vesicles.

    • Smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

    Correct Answer
    A. Lysosomes.
    Explanation
    Lysosomes are the organelles involved in intracellular digestion of food particles. They contain digestive enzymes that break down macromolecules into smaller components, which can then be used by the cell for energy or other purposes. The Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins, while cisternae are flattened membrane sacs found in the Golgi apparatus. Transitional vesicles are involved in transport between the endoplasmic reticulum and the Golgi apparatus. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification. Therefore, the correct answer is lysosomes.

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  • 48. 

    The various techniques by which scientists manipulate DNA in the lab is called

    • Genetic engineering.

    • Biotechnology.

    • Recombinant DNA.

    • Gel electrophoresis.

    • Gene probes.

    Correct Answer
    A. Genetic engineering.
    Explanation
    Genetic engineering refers to the various techniques used by scientists to manipulate DNA in the lab. This involves altering the genetic material of an organism by inserting, deleting, or modifying specific genes. Biotechnology is a broader term that encompasses genetic engineering along with other techniques used in the field of biology. Recombinant DNA is a specific technique used in genetic engineering to combine DNA from different sources. Gel electrophoresis is a laboratory technique used to separate DNA fragments based on their size. Gene probes are short DNA sequences used to detect specific genes or mutations.

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  • 49. 

    When patient tissues are transfected with viruses carrying a needed, normal human gene, the technique is called

    • Cloning.

    • Gene therapy.

    • Antisense therapeutic.

    • DNA fingerprinting.

    • None of the choices are correct.

    Correct Answer
    A. Gene therapy.
    Explanation
    Gene therapy is the correct answer because it involves the process of introducing normal human genes into patient tissues using viruses as vectors. This technique aims to correct genetic disorders by replacing or supplementing the defective genes with functional ones. Cloning refers to the creation of genetically identical copies of an organism, while antisense therapeutic is a different approach that uses synthetic molecules to inhibit the expression of specific genes. DNA fingerprinting is a method used for identification purposes, which is unrelated to the given scenario.

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Stephen Reinbold |PhD (Biological Sciences) |
Biology Instructor
Stephen Reinbold has a PhD in Biological Sciences and a strong passion for teaching. He taught various subjects including General Biology, Environmental Science, Zoology, Genetics, and Anatomy & Physiology at Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City, Missouri, for nearly thirty years. He focused on scientific methodology and student research projects. Now retired, he works part-time as an editor and engages in online activities.

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 28, 2024 +

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  • Mar 28, 2024
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    Expert Reviewed by
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  • Apr 15, 2009
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