Multiple Choice
Structures external to the bacterial cell wall that is used for motility (movement) by chemotaxis:
7. Prokaryotic Cell Structures & Functions
Chemotaxis
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If an E. coli bacterium finds itself moving away from an attractant how will its movements change?
A
The runs will become longer and the tumbles less frequent.
B
The runs will become shorter and the tumbles less frequent.
C
The runs will become longer and the tumbles more frequent.
D
The runs will become shorter and the tumbles more frequent.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of chemotaxis in bacteria: Chemotaxis is the movement of an organism in response to a chemical stimulus. Bacteria like E. coli move towards attractants (e.g., nutrients) and away from repellents.
Recognize the two types of movements in bacterial motility: 'runs' and 'tumbles'. A 'run' is a smooth, linear movement, while a 'tumble' is a random change in direction.
Identify the role of attractants in bacterial movement: When E. coli moves towards an attractant, it experiences longer runs and fewer tumbles, allowing it to efficiently reach the attractant.
Consider the scenario where E. coli moves away from an attractant: In this case, the bacterium needs to change direction more frequently to find the attractant again.
Conclude the expected behavior: When moving away from an attractant, E. coli will have shorter runs and more frequent tumbles to reorient itself towards the attractant.
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