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Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry, which type of bacteriophage enters an inactive prophage stage during its life cycle?
A
Virulent phage
B
Temperate phage
C
Lytic phage
D
Lysogenic phage
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the life cycle of bacteriophages: Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria. They have two main life cycles: the lytic cycle and the lysogenic cycle.
Differentiate between the types of phages: Virulent phages only undergo the lytic cycle, where they replicate within the host and cause cell lysis. Temperate phages can undergo both the lytic and lysogenic cycles.
Define the lysogenic cycle: In the lysogenic cycle, the phage's DNA integrates into the host's genome and becomes a prophage. This stage is inactive, meaning the phage does not immediately destroy the host cell.
Identify the phage type associated with the lysogenic cycle: Temperate phages are capable of entering the lysogenic cycle, where they exist as inactive prophages within the host cell.
Clarify the terminology: The term 'lysogenic phage' is often used interchangeably with 'temperate phage' because it refers to the phage's ability to enter the lysogenic cycle and form a prophage.