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Bacterial plasmids

  • ATI TEAS
  • Science: Biology
  • Select all that apply
  • Difficulty 3 of 5

Question

A student examines a bacterial plasmid. Which observations are consistent with its properties? Select all that apply.

  1. It is a circular DNA molecule.✓ Correct

    A plasmid has a circular DNA structure.

  2. It is separate from chromosomal DNA.✓ Correct

    Plasmids are physically distinct from the chromosome.

  3. It can be copied independently of chromosomal DNA.✓ Correct

    Plasmids replicate independently.

  4. It must be part of the bacterial chromosome.✗ Incorrect

    A plasmid is separate from chromosomal DNA.

  5. It is composed only of protein.✗ Incorrect

    A plasmid is made of DNA.

Answer

A. It is a circular DNA molecule. · B. It is separate from chromosomal DNA. · C. It can be copied independently of chromosomal DNA.

Rationale

A plasmid is a separate circular DNA molecule that can copy itself independently. Bacteria may contain such molecules alongside their chromosomal DNA.

RememberBacterial plasmids are separate, independently replicating circular DNA.

Sources

  • Talking Glossary of National Human Genome Research Institute (NIH) · License: US government work (public domain) · Retrieved · Page 19

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