Bacteria Flashcards

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  • Make sure you understand the information on each card. If something's unclear, click the link to the revision notes at the bottom of the page for more details.

2️⃣ Test yourself:

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What are bacteria?

They are tiny single-celled organisms called prokaryotes. Many are harmless, but some cause disease.

How big are most bacteria?

About 1 to 5 micrometres in size. You need a microscope to see them.

Do bacteria have a nucleus?

No. Their DNA is free in the cytoplasm as a single circular loop.

What are plasmids in bacteria?

They are small extra loops of DNA in bacterial cells. They can carry genes that help survival.

What is the function of a bacterial cell wall?

It supports and protects the cell. It helps the cell keep its shape.

How do bacteria reproduce?

By binary fission. The cell grows, copies its DNA, and splits into two cells.

Which conditions help bacteria reproduce quickly?

Warmth, moisture, and plenty of nutrients. Some bacteria also need oxygen.

How do bacteria cause disease?

They make toxins and can damage body cells. This leads to symptoms such as fever or diarrhoea.

How can bacterial infections spread between people?

Through droplets in the air, direct contact, or touching contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

What is a bacterial colony?

A visible group of millions of bacteria growing together. It often forms a circular patch on a Petri dish.

Why do antibiotics work on bacteria but not viruses?

Antibiotics target parts of bacterial cells, like cell walls or ribosomes. Viruses are not cells, so they do not have these targets.

What is a flagellum in bacteria and what is its job?

It is a thin, tail-like structure that can spin. It helps the bacterium move through liquids.