After completing the Gram stain, Gram-positive bacteria typically appear as which color?

Unlock all features

Unlock your full potential with Examzify Plus. Access the complete question bank, personalized progress tracking, and an ad-free experience.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the WGU NURS1010 Microbiology Exam with engaging study materials, flashcards, and multiple choice questions. Enhance your understanding with detailed explanations and insights. Get exam-ready today!

Multiple Choice

After completing the Gram stain, Gram-positive bacteria typically appear as which color?

Explanation:
The distinguishing feature here is how the Gram stain interacts with bacterial cell walls. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that traps the crystal violet–iodine complex during the staining process and stays purple after the alcohol decolorization step. In contrast, Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that releases the dye during decolorization, so they take up the counterstain and appear pink or red. Green or brown aren’t produced in a standard Gram stain. So, after completing the Gram stain, Gram-positive bacteria typically appear purple.

The distinguishing feature here is how the Gram stain interacts with bacterial cell walls. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that traps the crystal violet–iodine complex during the staining process and stays purple after the alcohol decolorization step. In contrast, Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that releases the dye during decolorization, so they take up the counterstain and appear pink or red. Green or brown aren’t produced in a standard Gram stain. So, after completing the Gram stain, Gram-positive bacteria typically appear purple.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy