Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vibrio cholerae. Cholera is caused by Vibrio cholerae, a bacterium that produces a toxin leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration. Clostridium botulinum (A) causes botulism, Salmonella enterica (C) causes salmonellosis, and Escherichia coli (D) can cause various illnesses but not cholera. Vibrio cholerae is the only bacteria specifically known for causing cholera.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because there is specific prophylaxis available for influenza, such as the flu vaccine. Choice A is incorrect as influenza viruses are not spherical, they are typically pleomorphic. Choice B is incorrect because hemagglutinin and neuraminidase are indeed antigenically variable, contributing to the need for annual flu vaccines. Choice C is incorrect as the susceptibility of the population to influenza viruses can vary depending on factors such as immunity and vaccination status.

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: 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: yeast and molds. Yeast and molds can resist acidic pH due to their ability to maintain a stable internal pH through various mechanisms such as ion transport and cell wall composition. Bacteria, including E. coli, are generally more sensitive to acidic conditions. Choice D is incorrect as yeast and molds are known to thrive in acidic environments.