mastering microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: cytomegalovirus. CMV is the most common virus transmitted during pregnancy, leading to potential serious complications for the fetus. It can cause birth defects, hearing loss, and developmental delays. CMV is commonly spread through bodily fluids. HIV (B) can also be transmitted during pregnancy but is less common. Herpes simplex virus (C) can be transmitted but typically results in localized infection. Epstein-Barr virus (D) is not commonly transmitted during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium is a common causative agent of skin infections like carbuncles. Staphylococcus aureus is known for its ability to produce pus-filled abscesses, which aligns with the symptoms described in the question. The presence of a vesicular rash around the carbuncle further supports this diagnosis, as Staphylococcus aureus can cause skin lesions. The other choices are not correct because: A: Bacillus anthracis causes anthrax, which presents with different symptoms such as fever, malaise, and respiratory symptoms. C: Bacillus subtilis is a harmless soil bacterium commonly used in research and not known to cause skin infections. D: Bacillus anthracoides is not a known pathogen and is not associated with human infections.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The description matches that of Streptococcus pneumoniae, which appears as gram-positive diplococci with slightly pointed opposite ends. Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Neisseria meningitidis do not match the specific characteristics described in the question. Staphylococcus aureus appears in grape-like clusters, while Neisseria species are typically seen as diplococci but lack the pointed shape described. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Staphylococcus aureus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Gram stain differentiates bacteria based on cell wall structure. It classifies bacteria into Gram-positive (purple) and Gram-negative (pink) based on the presence of peptidoglycan in the cell wall. This method helps in identifying the bacterial species and determining appropriate treatment. Option A (Cell shape) is incorrect because the Gram stain focuses on cell wall composition, not cell shape. Option C (Flagella composition) is incorrect as the Gram stain does not assess flagella. Option D (Nutrient requirements) is incorrect as it does not relate to the purpose of the Gram stain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Halogens. Chlorine belongs to the halogens group because it is a nonmetal element in group 17 of the periodic table. Halogens are highly reactive elements that have 7 electrons in their outer shell, making them eager to gain an electron to achieve stability. Chlorine specifically is a diatomic molecule with the chemical symbol Cl and atomic number 17. Option B: Heavy metals are elements with high atomic weights and densities, such as lead and mercury, which are not related to chlorine. Option C: Phenols are a class of organic compounds containing a hydroxyl group bonded to an aromatic ring, not related to chlorine. Option D: Alcohols are organic compounds characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH), also not related to chlorine.