microbiology chapter 12 test bank Related

Review microbiology chapter 12 test bank related questions and content

The bacterial component targeted by penicillin is:

  • A. DNA
  • B. Plasma membrane
  • C. Cell wall
  • D. Ribosomes
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cell wall. Penicillin targets the cell wall of bacteria by inhibiting the formation of peptidoglycan, a crucial component of the cell wall. This weakens the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell lysis. Choice A (DNA) is incorrect because penicillin does not directly target DNA. Choice B (Plasma membrane) is incorrect as penicillin primarily affects the cell wall, not the plasma membrane. Choice D (Ribosomes) is incorrect because penicillin does not target bacterial ribosomes, which are involved in protein synthesis.