microbiology chapter 14 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 14 test bank related questions and content

Nonchromosomal DNA molecules found in a bacterial cell are

  • A. endospores.
  • B. transposons.
  • C. plasmids.
  • D. prions.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: plasmids. Plasmids are nonchromosomal DNA molecules commonly found in bacterial cells, providing additional genetic material for bacteria. They are not essential for bacterial survival but can confer advantages such as antibiotic resistance. Endospores (A) are dormant bacterial structures resistant to harsh conditions. Transposons (B) are mobile genetic elements that can move within a genome. Prions (D) are misfolded proteins causing neurodegenerative diseases, not DNA molecules.