microbiology an evolving science test bank

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium can be transmitted via droplets in the air through coughing or sneezing. It is spread through respiratory droplets containing the bacteria. Streptococcus pneumoniae (A) is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory secretions, not through droplets in the air. Escherichia coli (B) is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water, not through the air. Clostridium botulinum (C) is typically transmitted through contaminated food, not via respiratory droplets. Therefore, the correct choice is D as it is the only bacterium listed that can be transmitted via droplets in the air.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Polymorphonuclear leukocyte. APCs are specialized immune cells that present antigens to T cells. B cells and dendritic cells are classic examples of APCs, as they can efficiently present antigens. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes, such as neutrophils, are not considered traditional APCs because they are primarily involved in phagocytosis and killing of pathogens rather than antigen presentation. Therefore, they do not play a significant role in initiating adaptive immune responses. The incorrect choices are A (B cell) and C (Dendritic cell) because they are both well-known antigen-presenting cells in the immune system. Choice D (All of the above) is incorrect because B cells and dendritic cells are indeed antigen-presenting cells.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Endospore. Endospores are dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structures formed by certain bacteria as a response to unfavorable conditions. They help bacteria survive harsh environments such as extreme temperatures, desiccation, and exposure to harmful chemicals. The other choices, Flagella (A), Capsule (B), and Pili (D), do not directly contribute to bacterial survival in adverse conditions. Flagella aid in bacterial movement, capsules provide protection from immune system attacks, and pili are involved in attachment to surfaces or other cells. Endospores are specifically designed for survival during unfavorable conditions, making them the correct choice in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Plasmids often carry antibiotic resistance genes, making choice C correct. Plasmids are circular DNA structures, not linear (A). They are found in both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, not exclusively in gram-positive bacteria (B). Plasmids are separate from the bacterial chromosome, not part of it (D). Therefore, choice C is the correct answer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Chitin is a polysaccharide found in the cell walls of fungi. Bacteria have cell walls made of peptidoglycan, not chitin. Viruses do not have cell walls as they are acellular entities. Therefore, the correct answer is A: fungi.