Endospore-Forming Bacteria Like Bacillus Species Begin the Sporulation Process with an Asymmetric

question 45

Multiple Choice

Endospore-forming bacteria like Bacillus species begin the sporulation process with an asymmetric cell division to produce two cells with different fates. One will differentiate into the endospore, and the other is the sporangium that will ultimately lyse to release the mature endospore. During this asymmetric cell division, one of the compartments does not receive an intact copy of the chromosome. Which compartment can function with only part of the genome and why?

• A) The endospore; the endospore is built from the outside via the sporangium and not from the inside.
• B) The sporangium; it supports endospore development and then lyses.
• C) The sporangium; much of the genome is "junk DNA" and not required for endospore maturation.
• D) The endospore; it is a dormant stage and requires very little to maintain its dormancy.

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Definitions:

Bacteria

Microscopic, single-celled organisms that are abundant in most environments on Earth, serving various roles in ecosystems and human health.

Viruses

Microscopic infectious agents that replicate only inside the living cells of an organism, capable of causing various diseases.

Figure of Speech

A literary device used to create a special effect or feeling by making some type of interesting or creative comparison.

Reaction Time

The time it takes to respond to a stimulus, either physically (with a reflexive movement such as an eyeblink) or cognitively (with a thought).