Microbial genetics: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Microbiology · Microbial genetics

Sample item

In bacterial genetics, what is a plasmid molecule?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Extrachromosomal circular DNA that may carry resistance genes

Plasmids are independently replicating DNA molecules that can carry virulence or antimicrobial-resistance genes and spread between bacteria.

Option by option

  • A. Host cell organelle

    Bacteria lack membrane-bound organelles.

  • B. Bacterial cell wall layer

    Cell wall is structural material.

  • C. Viral capsid protein

    Capsids are viral protein shells.

  • D. Extrachromosomal circular DNA that may carry resistance genes (correct)

    Correct: plasmids are mobile extrachromosomal DNA.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is D, Extrachromosomal circular DNA that may carry resistance genes. Plasmids are independently replicating DNA molecules that can carry virulence or antimicrobial-resistance genes and spread between bacteria.

Why is "Host cell organelle" not the answer?

Bacteria lack membrane-bound organelles.

Why is "Bacterial cell wall layer" not the answer?

Cell wall is structural material.

Why is "Viral capsid protein" not the answer?

Capsids are viral protein shells.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Microbial genetics in Microbiology. The correct option holds because: Correct: plasmids are mobile extrachromosomal DNA.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Microbial genetics?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.