Biology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

How are bacteria beneficial to a plant?

1. They provide a place for fungi to grow

2. They protect the roots from disease

3. They provide nitrogen for growth

4. They disinfect the soil

The correct answer is: They provide nitrogen for growth

Bacteria can be beneficial to plants by providing them with nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for their growth. This is because certain types of bacteria, known as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, have the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use. This process, called nitrogen fixation, occurs in the soil surrounding the plant roots. Therefore, options A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not contribute to the plant's nitrogen needs and provide different benefits to the plant. For example, option A mentions fungi, which can also be beneficial to plants but in a different way than bacteria. Fungi can form symbiotic relationships with plants and aid in nutrient uptake. Option B mentions protection from disease, which is also important for plant health, but it is not directly related to the role of bacteria in providing nitrogen. Option D mentions disinfecting the soil, which can be helpful