Question

______ protects the cell from loss of water and nutrients.

options:

• capsule
• slime layer
• cell membrane
• nucleus

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Capsule: A rigid layer, mainly for protection from desiccation and phagocytosis, but not primary for water/nutrient loss prevention.
• Slime layer: A loose, gel - like layer that helps protect the cell from loss of water and nutrients by forming a sort of barrier.
• Cell membrane: Regulates the passage of substances in and out, but the description here better fits the slime layer's function for preventing loss.
• Nucleus: Controls cell activities, not related to water/nutrient loss protection.

Answer:

B. slime layer