McGraw Hill Microbiology Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinned food. Botulism is often caused by the botulinum toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can be present in improperly canned foods. Analyzing tinned food allows for direct detection of the toxin or bacteria, confirming the diagnosis. Potatoes, pasteurized milk, and boiled meat are less likely sources of botulism compared to tinned food, making them less suitable for initial analysis in this case.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Positive strand RNA viruses. These viruses have RNA genomes that can be directly translated by host ribosomes without the need for transcription. In contrast, single-strand DNA and double-strand DNA viruses require transcription to generate mRNA for translation. Choice A is incorrect as there is a correct answer. Choice B and C are incorrect because both single-strand DNA and double-strand DNA viruses require transcription for mRNA synthesis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the nucleocapsid of viruses is composed of the genome (genetic material) and the capsid (protein coat). The genome contains the viral genetic information, while the capsid protects the genome and helps in viral attachment and entry into host cells. Choice A is incorrect because the envelope is not part of the nucleocapsid but surrounds the capsid in some viruses. Choice C is incorrect as spikes are surface proteins on the viral envelope, not part of the nucleocapsid. Choice D is also incorrect because the envelope is external to the capsid and genome in many viruses.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lysozyme. Lysozyme is an enzyme that targets and breaks down the peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls by cleaving the glycosidic bonds between the sugar components. This action weakens the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell lysis. Amylase (B) breaks down starch, not peptidoglycan. Protease (C) breaks down proteins, not peptidoglycan. Lipase (D) breaks down lipids, not peptidoglycan. Therefore, Lysozyme is the correct enzyme for breaking down peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because in the lytic cycle, the bacteriophage destroys the host cell upon release, whereas in the lysogenic cycle, the phage integrates its DNA into the host genome without killing the host immediately. This integration may lead to the destruction of the host cell at a later stage. Choice B is incorrect as lytic phages do destroy the host cell. Choice C is incorrect as the two cycles have distinct mechanisms. Choice D is incorrect as there are clear differences between the lytic and lysogenic cycles.