The correct descending order of taxonomic categories is

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct descending order of taxonomic categories is domain, kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, species. This hierarchical classification system helps organize and categorize living organisms based on their shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Explanation: - Domain is the broadest category, representing the highest level of classification. - Kingdom further divides organisms into major groups based on similar characteristics. - Phylum, class, order, family, and genus successively narrow down the classification based on more specific shared characteristics. - Species is the most specific category, representing individual organisms capable of interbreeding. Summary of other choices: A: Incorrect as it has the incorrect order of phylum, kingdom, and division. B: Incorrect as it has the incorrect order of family and species. D: Incorrect as it has the incorrect order of domain, kingdom, and class.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: heterotrophic. Fungi are heterotrophic organisms that obtain nutrients by absorbing organic compounds from their environment. They do not produce their own food through photosynthesis (option A: autotrophic) or chemosynthesis (option B: chemotrophic). Fungi also do not rely on light for energy (option D: phototrophic). Therefore, the correct choice is C as it accurately describes the nutritional mode of fungi.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: epidermis. Langerhans cells are a type of immune cell found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. They play a crucial role in the defense against microbes by capturing and presenting antigens to activate the immune system. The dermis (B), hypodermis (C), and subcutaneous layer (D) are located deeper in the skin and do not contain Langerhans cells. Therefore, the epidermis is the correct location for these immune cells to carry out their defensive functions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because sterilization is the process of completely destroying all microorganisms, including resistant forms like spores, ensuring no viable organisms remain. This is crucial for ensuring complete elimination of potential pathogens. Choice A is incorrect because sterilization should eliminate all microorganisms, including spores. Choice C is incorrect as it describes disinfection, not sterilization. Choice D is incorrect because sterilization aims to eradicate all microorganisms, not leave any viable ones behind.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacterium is known to cause sore throat and fever, commonly referred to as strep throat. Gram's stain showing Gram-positive cocci in chains is characteristic of Streptococcus species. Streptococcus pyogenes is a beta-hemolytic bacterium that forms chains and is a common cause of bacterial pharyngitis. Staphylococcus aureus (B) is a Gram-positive cocci that forms clusters, not chains. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (C) is a Gram-negative diplococcus and is not associated with sore throat. Enterococcus faecalis (D) is a Gram-positive cocci that can cause infections but is not typically associated with sore throat.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because viruses are sensitive to interferon, a natural defense mechanism of the body against viral infections. Interferon helps to inhibit viral replication. A: Viruses are cell-free infectious particles, not living systems. B: Viruses are obligate intracellular parasites as they require host cells to replicate. C: Viruses can have either DNA or RNA as genetic material, which is a characteristic feature.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clostridium perfringens. Clostridium perfringens is known to cause gas gangrene and is a Gram-positive rod that produces spores and gas in tissue infections. Clostridium tetani causes tetanus, not gas gangrene. Bacillus anthracis causes anthrax, not gas gangrene. Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive cocci and does not produce spores or gas in the context of gas gangrene. Therefore, based on the characteristics of the microorganism isolated from the wound sample, Clostridium perfringens is the most likely causative agent.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. IgG is the most abundant immunoglobin in a normal healthy adult due to its long half-life and diverse functions. 2. It plays a crucial role in immune response by neutralizing pathogens and enhancing phagocytosis. 3. IgA is mainly found in mucosal areas, IgE is involved in allergic reactions, and IgD's function is not fully understood. 4. Therefore, IgG is the correct answer as it is the predominant immunoglobin in circulation, providing broad immune protection.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: "Fried egg" colonies typically refer to colonies with a raised center and flattened periphery, resembling the appearance of a fried egg. Step 2: Actinomycetes are filamentous bacteria known to form "fried egg" colonies in nutrient medium. Step 3: Actinomycetes are commonly found in soil and are known to be phytopathogenic microorganisms. Step 4: Actinomycetes produce secondary metabolites with medicinal properties, making them a likely agent from a medicinal herb. Overall, the correct answer is C (Actinomycetes) as they fit the description provided in the question and are commonly associated with the given scenario. The other choices are incorrect as they do not exhibit the specific characteristics mentioned in the question or are not typically associated with forming "fried egg" colonies in nutrient medium.