Cell Wall Flashcards
(11 cards)
What is the bacterial cell wall?
The bacterial cell wall is a complex, semirigid structure that gives shape to the cell and surrounds the plasma membrane.
What is the main function of the bacterial cell wall?
To prevent the cell from rupturing when the internal water pressure is greater than the external pressure.
How does the bacterial cell wall help the cell besides providing shape?
It acts as an anchor point for flagella and helps protect the cell from environmental changes.
Why is the bacterial cell wall important in medicine?
It contributes to a bacterium’s ability to cause disease and is the target of some antibiotics.
How does the cell wall assist in bacterial growth?
As the cell’s volume increases, the cell wall and plasma membrane extend to accommodate growth.
How does the chemical composition of the cell wall aid in bacterial identification?
It is used to differentiate major types of bacteria.
How do cell walls in eukaryotes differ from those in prokaryotes?
Eukaryotic cell walls (like those in plants and fungi) are chemically different, simpler, and less rigid.
How do cell walls in eukaryotes differ from those in prokaryotes?
Eukaryotic cell walls (like those in plants and fungi) are chemically different, simpler, and less rigid.
How do cell walls in eukaryotes differ from those in prokaryotes?
Eukaryotic cell walls (like those in plants and fungi) are chemically different, simpler, and less rigid.
What is the bacterial cell wall composed of?
It is composed of a macromolecular network called peptidoglycan, also known as murein.
: Is peptidoglycan found alone in the bacterial cell wall?
Peptidoglycan can be present alone or in combination with other substances.
