microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, promoting plant growth. Denitrifying bacteria (B) convert nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen. Photosynthetic bacteria (C) use photosynthesis to produce energy and don't fix nitrogen. Fermentative bacteria (D) break down organic compounds without fixing nitrogen. In summary, only nitrogen-fixing bacteria (A) play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: P.aeruginosa. This bacterium is commonly found in water and soil, making its presence in indoor air an indicator of poor sanitation. Step 1: P.aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen known to cause infections in hospitals. Step 2: Its presence in the air indicates potential contamination and poor air quality. Step 3: Regular monitoring of P.aeruginosa levels can help assess the effectiveness of sanitation measures. Summary: A, B, and C are not suitable indicators of air sanitation in an enclosed space as they are not typically associated with environmental contamination or poor air quality.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These bacteria can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, promoting plant growth. Denitrifying bacteria (B) convert nitrates back into atmospheric nitrogen. Photosynthetic bacteria (C) use photosynthesis to produce energy and don't fix nitrogen. Fermentative bacteria (D) break down organic compounds without fixing nitrogen. In summary, only nitrogen-fixing bacteria (A) play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Single stranded segmented (-) RNA. Orthomyxoviridae family includes influenza viruses, which have a genome composed of single-stranded segmented negative-sense RNA. This specific structure allows for efficient replication and transcription within host cells. Choice A is incorrect as orthomyxoviruses do not have a double-stranded DNA genome. Choice B is incorrect because orthomyxoviruses have a negative-sense RNA genome, not a positive-sense RNA genome. Choice C is incorrect as orthomyxoviruses do not have a double-stranded RNA genome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main function of bacterial pili is to facilitate conjugation and adhesion. Pili are hair-like appendages on bacteria that help in cell-to-cell interactions. They play a crucial role in bacterial conjugation by allowing the transfer of genetic material between cells. Additionally, pili help bacteria adhere to surfaces or host cells, aiding in colonization and biofilm formation. Choices A and D are incorrect because protein synthesis and toxin secretion are not the primary functions of pili. Choice C is incorrect as bacterial motility is mainly mediated by flagella, not pili.