microbiology a systems approach test bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pili in bacteria are responsible for conjugation, allowing the transfer of genetic material between cells. They form a bridge between donor and recipient cells, facilitating the exchange of DNA. Flagella are for movement, capsules for protection, and ribosomes for protein synthesis. Pili is the only structure directly involved in genetic material exchange.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Spores. In the Ozheshko staining method, spores appear blue with red terminal components. Spores are reproductive structures produced by some bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Cilia are short, hair-like structures used for movement. Flagella are long, whip-like structures also used for movement. Capsules are outer protective layers surrounding some bacteria. In this case, the description of rod-like microorganisms with blue staining and red terminal components aligns with the characteristics of spores, making it the correct answer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because cultural characteristics of bacteria refer to their growth patterns on different culture media, including liquid and solid agars. Bacteria exhibit unique growth patterns that can be observed and studied on these media. Choice A is incorrect as it refers to isolation techniques, not cultural characteristics. Choice B is incorrect as it describes metabolic activities, not cultural characteristics. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the essential aspect of bacterial growth on culture media.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: psychrophiles. Psychrophiles are bacteria that can grow at low temperatures, typically below 20�C. This is because they have adapted to survive and thrive in cold environments. Mesophiles (A) grow best at moderate temperatures, thermophiles (B) thrive in high temperatures, and halophiles (D) prefer high salt concentrations. Psychrophiles are specifically adapted to cold temperatures, making them the correct choice in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known for producing a bluish-green pigment called pyocyanin, which presents as a cyan pigment. This bacterium is commonly associated with wound infections and is often found in oral surgery complications. Proteus vulgaris (B) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (D) are not typically associated with cyan pigment production, making them less likely causative agents. Bacillus subtilis (C) is not known to produce cyan pigment and is not a common pathogen in wound infections. Therefore, based on the presence of cyan pigment and the clinical context of an oral surgery complication, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the most probable causative agent.