[Campbell Biology P.624] Which of the following statements accurately describes a key differ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a key difference between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria based on the provided information?

  • A: Gram-positive bacteria possess an outer membrane, while Gram-negative bacteria do not.
  • B: Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner layer of peptidoglycan located between the plasma membrane and an outer membrane.
  • C: Gram-positive bacteria stain a lighter color due to their thin cell wall.
  • D: The carbohydrate portion of lipopolysaccharide is a major component of the Gram-positive cell wall.

Explanation

Figure 27.3 b clearly indicates that Gram-negative bacteria have a 'thinner layer of peptidoglycan located between the plasma membrane and an outer membrane.' This is a distinguishing feature not found in Gram-positive bacteria, which have a thick peptidoglycan layer and lack an outer membrane.