Colonies of Streptococcus Pneumoniae Appear α-Hemolytic on Blood Agar Media

question 6

Multiple Choice

Colonies of Streptococcus pneumoniae appear α-hemolytic on blood agar media.Which one of the following statements explains this discrepancy?

• A)The lot of blood agar may be expired.
• B)Something may be wrong with the strain of S.pneumoniae since it should be β-hemolytic on blood agar.
• C)Something may be wrong with the strain of S.pneumoniae;it should be γ-hemolytic on blood agar.
• D)No discrepancy is present.S.pneumoniae should be α-hemolytic on blood agar.

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Definitions:

Cilia

Microscopic, hair-like structures that protrude from the surface of many cells, involved in movement and sensory functions.

Pharynx

The muscular tube that connects the mouth and nasal passages with the esophagus.

Tidal Volume

The amount of air that is inhaled or exhaled in a normal breath under resting conditions, important in respiratory physiology.

Inspiratory Capacity

The maximum amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation, used in assessing lung function.