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Ch. 1 - The Microbial World and You
Chapter 1, Problem 1.2a

Which of the following is not a characteristic of bacteria?
a. are prokaryotic
b. have peptidoglycan cell walls
c. have the same shape
d. grow by binary fission
e. have the ability to move

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1
Identify the characteristics of bacteria from the options provided.
Recall that bacteria are prokaryotic organisms, meaning they lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles.
Understand that most bacteria have cell walls containing peptidoglycan, a unique polymer that provides structural support.
Recognize that bacteria typically reproduce through binary fission, a form of asexual reproduction.
Consider that bacteria can have various shapes (e.g., cocci, bacilli, spirilla) and not all bacteria have the ability to move, which is often facilitated by structures like flagella.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Prokaryotic Cell Structure

Bacteria are classified as prokaryotes, meaning they lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other organelles found in eukaryotic cells. Their genetic material is typically a single circular DNA molecule located in the nucleoid region. This fundamental difference in cell structure is crucial for understanding bacterial biology and their classification within the tree of life.
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Peptidoglycan in Cell Walls

Bacterial cell walls are primarily composed of peptidoglycan, a polymer that provides structural support and protection. This unique feature distinguishes bacteria from other microorganisms, such as archaea and eukaryotes, which have different cell wall compositions. The presence of peptidoglycan is a key characteristic used in bacterial classification and antibiotic targeting.
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Binary Fission

Bacteria reproduce asexually through a process called binary fission, where a single bacterial cell divides into two identical daughter cells. This method of reproduction allows for rapid population growth under favorable conditions. Understanding binary fission is essential for studying bacterial growth rates and the dynamics of bacterial populations.
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