Microbial genetics: practice question

A Microbiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Microbiology · Microbial genetics

Sample item

What is bacterial conjugation?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Transfer of DNA through direct cell-to-cell contact

Conjugation transfers genetic material, often plasmids carrying resistance genes, through direct bacterial contact mediated by specialized structures.

Option by option

  • A. Transfer of DNA through direct cell-to-cell contact (correct)

    Correct: direct contact is the defining feature.

  • B. Transfer by bacteriophage

    Bacteriophage transfer is transduction.

  • C. Random mutation during replication

    Mutation does not require donor-cell contact.

  • D. Uptake of naked DNA from environment

    Environmental DNA uptake is transformation.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Microbiology questions

Questions about this Microbiology question

What is the answer to this Microbiology question?

The best answer is A, Transfer of DNA through direct cell-to-cell contact. Conjugation transfers genetic material, often plasmids carrying resistance genes, through direct bacterial contact mediated by specialized structures.

Why is "Transfer by bacteriophage" not the answer?

Bacteriophage transfer is transduction.

Why is "Random mutation during replication" not the answer?

Mutation does not require donor-cell contact.

Why is "Uptake of naked DNA from environment" not the answer?

Environmental DNA uptake is transformation.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Microbial genetics in Microbiology. The correct option holds because: Correct: direct contact is the defining feature.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Microbial genetics?

Make a one-line identity card for each organism: shape and stain, defining test, toxin, disease and drug. Then use the flashcards and the other Microbiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.