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Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry, what is a key structural difference between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria?
A
Gram-positive bacteria have a thicker peptidoglycan layer.
B
Gram-negative bacteria lack a cell wall.
C
Gram-negative bacteria have a thicker peptidoglycan layer.
D
Gram-positive bacteria have an outer membrane.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of bacterial cell walls: Bacteria are classified into two main groups based on their cell wall structure, which can be identified using the Gram stain technique.
Identify the characteristics of Gram-positive bacteria: Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining process, making them appear purple under a microscope.
Identify the characteristics of Gram-negative bacteria: Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an additional outer membrane. This structure does not retain the crystal violet stain, and instead, they appear pink or red after counterstaining with safranin.
Compare the structural differences: The key structural difference is that Gram-positive bacteria have a thicker peptidoglycan layer, while Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane.
Evaluate the given options: Based on the structural differences, the correct statement is that Gram-positive bacteria have a thicker peptidoglycan layer. The other options are incorrect based on the known structural characteristics of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.