Questions: You have 2 bacteria and you need to test their ability to survive heat. Bacterium 1 survives high heat for a longer period of time; whereas, bacterium 2 does not. What could have helped bacterium 1 survive? - its oxygen requirement - endospores - decarboxylation - protein catabolism

The answer is the second one: endospores.

Explanation for each option:

1. Its oxygen requirement: Oxygen requirement generally affects how bacteria grow in different environments, but it is not directly related to heat resistance. Some bacteria are aerobic, anaerobic, or facultative anaerobes, but these characteristics do not inherently provide heat resistance.

2. Endospores: Endospores are a key factor in bacterial heat resistance. Certain bacteria can form endospores, which are highly resistant structures that can withstand extreme conditions, including high temperatures. This ability to form endospores would help bacterium 1 survive high heat for a longer period.

3. Decarboxylation: This is a chemical reaction that removes a carboxyl group and releases carbon dioxide. While it is a metabolic process, it does not directly contribute to heat resistance in bacteria.

4. Protein catabolism: This refers to the breakdown of proteins into amino acids and other compounds. While it is a metabolic process, it does not provide heat resistance to bacteria.

In summary, the ability of bacterium 1 to survive high heat is likely due to its ability to form endospores, which are known for their resistance to extreme conditions.