Microscopic examination of pus from a wound revealed Gram-positive cocci in grape-like clusters. The bacteria were catalase- and coagulase-positive. Identify the microorganism.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Gram-positive cocci in grape-like clusters suggest Staphylococcus. Step 2: Catalase-positive indicates Staphylococcus (negative for Streptococcus). Step 3: Coagulase-positive is specific for Staphylococcus aureus. Summary: B: Streptococcus pyogenes is catalase-negative. C: Enterococcus faecalis does not form grape-like clusters. D: Micrococcus luteus is catalase-positive but not coagulase-positive.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cell wall rigidity. Teichoic acid in Gram-positive bacteria helps to maintain the structural integrity of the cell wall by providing rigidity and stability. It also plays a role in regulating the movement of ions across the cell membrane. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because teichoic acid is not involved in energy production, spore formation, or motility in bacteria. It primarily functions in cell wall maintenance and integrity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Antony van Leeuwenhoek. He was the first to observe and describe "animalcules" (microorganisms) through his early microscopes. Robert Hooke (A) is known for his work with cells but did not discover animalcules. Hans Janssen (C) and John Needham (D) did not make significant contributions to the discovery of microorganisms. Leeuwenhoek's pioneering observations were crucial in the development of microbiology.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Gram-positive diplococci with pointed ends indicate Streptococcus pneumoniae. 2. Presence of capsules supports the likelihood of S. pneumoniae. 3. S. pneumoniae is a common cause of pneumonia. 4. Klebsiella pneumoniae is Gram-negative and does not form diplococci. 5. Neisseria meningitidis typically causes meningitis, not pneumonia. 6. Staphylococcus aureus is Gram-positive but does not typically present as diplococci in pneumonia cases.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clostridium perfringens. This bacterium is Gram-positive, spore-forming, anaerobic, and produces gas. Clostridium perfringens is commonly associated with wound infections due to its ability to produce gas gangrene. Choice B: Bacillus anthracis is also a Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium, but it does not typically produce gas in wound infections. Choice C: Clostridium botulinum is a spore-forming, anaerobic bacterium, but it is associated with foodborne botulism rather than wound infections. Choice D: Clostridium tetani is a spore-forming, anaerobic bacterium that causes tetanus, but it does not produce gas in wound infections.