MDCAT Biology MCQ #81

A bacteriophage approaches an E. coli cell in a liquid medium. Which specific interaction allows the virus to initially anchor to the host's surface?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #81

  1. Question 1

    Q1. A bacteriophage approaches an E. coli cell in a liquid medium. Which specific interaction allows the virus to initially anchor to the host's surface?

    • A) The capsid head binds to the bacterial flagella
    • B) The tail sheath contracts to pierce the cell wall
    • C) Tail pins create a hole in the peptidoglycan
    • D) Tail fibers recognize specific receptor sites on the cell wall

    Answer: Tail fibers recognize specific receptor sites on the cell wall

    Explanation: Attachment occurs through specific chemical attraction between phage tail fibers and bacterial receptor sites. Tail pins are for penetration, not initial anchoring.