A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is the primary function of antibiotics?

1. To promote bacterial growth

2. To inhibit or kill the growth of bacteria

3. To enhance the immune response

4. To neutralize toxins produced by bacteria

The correct answer is: To inhibit or kill the growth of bacteria

The primary function of antibiotics is to inhibit or kill the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are specifically designed to target bacterial cells, either by disrupting essential processes such as cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, or nucleic acid replication, or by interfering with metabolic pathways unique to bacteria. This selective action is what makes antibiotics effective against bacterial infections while sparing human cells. The role of antibiotics should not be confused with promoting bacterial growth; their purpose is to combat bacterial presence, not encourage it. While some treatments can boost the immune response, this is not a function of antibiotics themselves, but rather the job of the immune system supported by overall health. Additionally, while some approaches in medical practice do involve neutralizing toxins produced by bacteria, that's more relevant to supportive treatments rather than the direct action of antibiotics themselves. Hence, the choice correctly identifies the primary role of antibiotics in treating bacterial infections.